Our Blogs - My Family Travel Zone - My family travel zone The travel blog of my family describes advice and recommendations how to travel throughout the world with family. Children are not the reason not to travel. http://myfamilytravelzone.com/ en-us Copyright 2014 Mr.Zero Ghent Travel Guide and 9 Things to do with Family https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/93-ghent-travel-guide-and-9-things-to-do-with-family <p><strong><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qZiC9Z4cVxE"></iframe></strong></p> <p></p> <p><strong>About Ghent</strong></p> <ul> <li>Ghent is the capital and largest city of the East Flanders province with its rich history and is the second largest municipality in Belgium. It is one of the most charming towns we have ever seen.</li> <li>Ghent located around 60 km from Brussels, and it will take approximately 50 min to go by car or about 40 minutes by train.</li> <li>Although Ghent is a large city, it is possible to explore its center walking within one day along cobblestone streets.</li> <li>Once we arrived at the center, we were pleasantly surprised by the beauty of each corner. And here are the things to do in Ghent that we discovered during our visit.</li> </ul> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong>Saint Bavo's Cathedral</strong></p> <ul> <li>The Saint Bavo Cathedral is the oldest parish church located in in the heart of the city. The cathedral is built on the site of the former Chapel of Saint John the Baptist. More than a thousand of years this has been a place of prayer and Christian worship.</li> <li>Thousands of people every year visit Saint Bavo’s Cathedral. Many tourists come to see this beautiful building; others come to participate in Holy Mass. Also, it is possible to visit this place during other events like exhibitions or concerts.</li> </ul> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong>Belfort Gent           </strong></p> <ul> <li>Just in the opposite side of the square from the Cathedral is located 14th-century Belfry and watchtower which is more than 90 meters tall and is one of three medieval towers in Ghent.</li> <li>We found that this is the tallest belfry in all Belgium and it is the symbol of the autonomy and independence of the city of Ghent.</li> <li>Just after this trip, we found out that we could observe Ghent from Belfry and I am sure that views from the top of the Belfry should be worth to visit. Do not miss it as we did.</li> <li>The other is Saint Bavo Cathedral and the third we will visit later.<strong> <br /></strong></li> </ul> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong>City Pavilion</strong></p> <ul> <li>Just behind Belfry, we found City Pavillion, which is the Modern building in the city center and is an architectural masterpiece.</li> <li>Unusual roof, impressive glasses makes this building unique between Ghent's medieval architecture.</li> </ul> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong>Saint Nicholas' Church</strong></p> <ul> <li>Gothic style Saint Nicholas Church was built in the 13th century and is one of the most prominent objects in Ghent. To create the church was used bluestones from the Tourney area. This Church is the third medieval tower in Ghent.</li> </ul> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong>Korenmarkt</strong></p> <ul> <li>Korenmarkt is a city square in the center of Ghent. It is located between the river and Saint Nicholas Church and is one of the most attractive locations for the tourist and cultural events.</li> <li>The atmosphere was relaxed, and here you can find and buy gifts, have lunch, or listen to street musicians.</li> </ul> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong>St Michael's Bridge</strong></p> <ul> <li>The point where you can see Ghent’s elegant beauty from all sides. Just go up on the bridge. Around you will be visible the most prominent places: Graslei and Korenlei, Saint Michaels church, Saint Nicholas Church, Belfry Tower, and Saint Bavo’s Cathedral.</li> <li>We heard that it is recommended to visit in the evening</li> </ul> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong>Graslei and Korenlei</strong></p> <ul> <li>We found information that both quays were part of the old ports since 11 century and now it is a touristic hotspot of the city center of Ghent. It is a lot of cafes around this place. The houses and architecture from the middle ages are just amazing like in all Ghent<g class="gr_ gr_92 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Style replaceWithoutSep" id="92" data-gr-id="92">.Graslei</g> and Korenlei is the place where all the visitors are coming to relax near the water, and this place is probably the most attractive place in the city.</li> </ul> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong>Take a boat trip from Graslei and Korenlei</strong></p> <ul> <li>Take a boat ride during your stay in Ghent because it is a unique way to explore the city and listen to the history of Ghent. You can find boat trips from Graslei and Korenlei.</li> </ul> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong>Try French fries                                 </strong></p> <ul> <li>You are in Ghent or another city in Belgium; you should try French fries or Belgian "Frites." You can always find them at a chips stand in the streets of market squares.</li> <li>The most popular is with beef stew sauce and mayonnaise. </li> </ul> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong>Gravensteen Castle</strong></p> <ul> <li>This castle was built in the 10<sup>th</sup> century. It used to be one of the strongest moated fortresses in Europe, later it became courthouse and prison, and today it is a museum.</li> <li>Find some time to go inside to see the torture cells with all devices, and from the top, you can observe the city.</li> </ul> <p> <strong></strong></p> <p><strong>Graffiti Street (Werregaren Straat)</strong></p> <ul> <li>Graffiti street is a little hidden, and it took a few minutes to find it. Every single place covered with graffiti.</li> <li>What is unique about this street is that it is never the same. If you go to Ghent tomorrow, it is likely that you will see different view that in this video. If you love graffiti, there are more places in Ghent where you can see works by famous artists, and it is possible to take a tour by bike or on foot.</li> </ul> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong>Take the opportunity</strong></p> <ul> <li>Some events and sights are unrepeatable, and you can’t plan this. Visiting the same place different time you can see different things, like this female, which used the zip line from the window, the street dancer or the guy, who was likely celebrating his bachelor party.</li> </ul> <p><strong></strong></p> <p><strong>Enjoy time in Ghent and share this post with friends</strong></p> My Family Travel Zone Belgium Blog January 15, 2019 Things to do in Brussels with kids in 4 Days https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/91-things-to-do-in-brussels-with-kids-in-4-days <p>Hello and welcome to Brussels. We spent here only four days, but before coming, we did a lot of planning because traveling with the kids it is always different. And why? If you have children, you probably understand us!<br />In this video, you will see 14 things we did in Brussels with our kids.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>VIDEO ABOUT BRUSSELS:</strong></span></p> <p><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7j44EIZDoUo"></iframe></p> <p>Subscribe for more here:</p> <div class="g-ytsubscribe" data-channelid="UCVSbfN_UQnsmfAgZWUqULKw" data-layout="default" data-count="default"></div> <h2>Day 1 - Brussels Old Town</h2> <p>For the first day, as usual in the new city, we walk around to explore the old town. For the kids long walks usually are not very fun. We came to Brussels by car, so we had to go back to the same place.  That is why we planned to walk around the city and at the end of the day to go back to the same place we started.</p> <p><em>Day 1 locations on the map (more detail information you can find on SEE&DO map):</em></p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/Map-first-day-with-numbers.jpg" alt="Day 1 Map with locations" width="800" height="580" /></p> <h3>1/14 Notre Dame du Sablon</h3> <p>The first object on our way was the gothic church of Notre Dame du Sablon. Means our Lady of Sablon. Fantastic exterior and stained glass windows look impressive. Here we did a few photos from outside and inside and continued our walk.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_6244-800.jpg" alt="" width="800" height="800" /></p> <h3>2/14 Park Mont des Art</h3> <p>Just in a few hundred meters, we reached Park Mont des, Art. It is a historic site in the center of Brussels, and it means the hill of the arts. A lot of people come to this place to do a few memorable pictures and enjoy the fantastic panoramic view of the city. There are a few museums around this place, but today our goal was different.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_6255-800.jpg" alt="Park Mont des Art" width="800" height="575" /></p> <h3>3/14 Manneken Pis</h3> <p>The next thing to see on our ways was a famous bronze statue, called Manneken Pis. We heard some people saying that it is not worth to visit this statue at all, but I believe that almost everybody who visits Brussels oldtown goes and see this boy at least once.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_6264.jpg" alt="Manneken Pis" width="800" height="483" /></p> <h3>4/14 Townhall and Grand Palace</h3> <p>Just a couple of minutes walk from Manneken Pis located town hall and a grand palace. Brussels Grand Palace is charming square and, I believe is a must to visit while visiting Brussels. I think that this place all the time is full of tourists and here you spend a few hours watching at amazing buildings, tasting dishes in local restaurants or tasting waffles.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/GOPR3643.jpg" alt="Grand Place Brussels" width="800" height="450" /></p> <h3>5/14 Royales Saint-Hubert</h3> <p>Next, to the Grand-Place, we visited the Galery of Saint Hubert. Here we found a lot of clothes, souvenirs and chocolate shops. This place has glass ceilings, so it is comfortable for shopping during all seasons or if it is raining outside.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/GOPR3644-2.jpg" alt="Royales Saint-Hubert Brussels" width="800" height="800" /></p> <h3>6/14 Jeanneke Pis</h3> <p>Very close to Galeries we visited another statue with the name - Jeanneke Pis. This statue is not as famous as Manneken pis, but it was interesting to find between narrow streets. In Brussels, it is three pissing statues and the third - pissing dog (with the name Zinneke Pis) located around 700 m from our route, so we decided to skip it.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/GOPR3656.jpg" alt="Jeanneke Pis" width="800" height="494" /></p> <h3>7/14 Saint Michael and Saint Gudula Cathedral</h3> <p>The next object was Saint Michael and Saint Gudula Cathedral. It is a beautiful building with stained glass windows. For a few euros, you can enter the museum as well. After Belgium, we went to Paris, and this cathedral is similar to Notre Dame Paris.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_6269.jpg" alt="Saint Michael and Saint Gudula Cathedral" width="800" height="800" /></p> <h3>8/14 Parc de Bruxelles</h3> <p>After this beauty was time for our boys, and we went to Brussels central park, and it was an excellent place for our kids to run around and to play around or in the kid's playground. This park has ponds, fountains, statues, and kids playground.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/GOPR3670.jpg" alt="Parc de Bruxelles" width="800" height="450" /></p> <h3>9/14 Royal residence of Brussels</h3> <p>Right on the other side of the park, we approached the last place of our first day - the Royal residence of Brussels. This place was impressive to walk around. Before going with kids, we would recommend visiting the unique part of their website designed for the kids. Do not forget to check opening hours before going inside because it is possible to enter just during the particular period.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_6275.jpg" alt="Royal residence of Brussels" width="800" height="563" /></p> <p><br />In the first day, we walked around five to six kilometers, and it was pretty enough for our kids and us. If we went the same distance again, we would probably do some more extended stop in the old town to have lunch, or if it were hot during the day, we would probably choose to walk more in the evening, because we heard that it is beneficial in the Grand Place during the dark time.</p> <h2>Day 2 - Mini-Europe, Atomium, ADAM (Art & Design Atomium Museum)</h2> <p>The next two days we decided to spend in the north of Brussels. And why two days? Because for our boys it was too much to see and do everything in one day. It could be possible, but I don't think it would be fun. So, for the second day, we decided to visit Mini-Europe, Atomium, and ADAM, which means Art & Design Atomium Museum, and for waterpark Oceade we chose to allocate the whole third day. And as we saw later, it was a right decision.</p> <p><em>All places are near each other</em><em>:</em></p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/Map-Mini-Europe.jpg" alt="Mini Europe, Atomium, ADAM, Oceade" width="800" height="590" /></p> <h3>10/14 Mini-Europe</h3> <p><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hRXKPFsmGGY"></iframe></p> <p>The tenth thing to do in Brussels is to visit Mini-Europe. We loved this place from the very first minutes because we could see so much within a short period. It was exciting to recognize areas where we visited before. They have around 350 models from ninety European cities and that it is already amazing. And it is not just the view because we saw passing trains, ships and could hear authentic sounds from airports or vulcanos.</p> <p>We just went from country to country and tried to recognize the places that we already saw in reality and of course, to see what represents our country. We found Vilnius University here, could realize places from Brussels (Grand Place) which we visited on our first day in Brussels and was interesting to explore Paris, where we went after a visit in Belgium.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_6697.jpg" alt="Mini-Europe Brussels" width="800" height="550" /></p> <h3>11/14 Atomium</h3> <p>Just a couple hundred meters from Mini-Europe you can see the Atomium which is one of the most famous landmarks of Brussels. Thousands of people are coming to this place and trying to do the best selfie ever.</p> <p>Inside the Atomium is a museum now. This place together with Mini-Europe is a must if you are coming to visit Brussels for a couple of days. We visited Atomium during the weekend just after Mini-Europe, and couldn't expect that lines are so long.</p> <p>The elevator to the museum is only one, and that is the main reason why people have to wait for a long time. If we could repeat this day, we would probably, first of all, visit Atomium and after would go to Mini-Europe. It could save you time.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_6819.jpg" alt="Atomium Brussels" width="800" height="776" /></p> <h3>12/14 Art & Design Atomium Museum (ADAM)</h3> <p>Straight after Atomium, we went to Art and Design Atomium Museum (ADAM). It is just a couple of hundred of meters from the Atomium;</p> <p>ADAM is a museum which will discover the design from different periods and different countries. Usually, they have permanent and temporary exhibitions, which means that you can always find something new here.</p> <p>In the museum, we could see things from our childhood and for the kids was interesting to see different things and shapes. It was an excellent place to educate kids and to tell them about the things that we used in the past.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_6885.jpg" alt="Art & Design Atomium Museum (ADAM)" width="800" height="428" /></p> <h2>Day 3 - Time for attraction in Océade - No1 waterpark in Belgium</h2> <h3>13/14 Océade</h3> <p>Time for attractions and like somebody sad, the waterpark is always a good idea to spend time with the kids. If during the last days we had to find a niche for the kids to attract their attention either to Brussels oldtown, Atomium or ADAM, so now we didn't have to put any effort for motivation.</p> <p>According to Océade is the No. 1 water park in water slides in Belgium and yes, they have many indoors and outdoors slides and pools. The pool inside (named Carribean sea) the building from time to time (every 20 minutes) are simulating waves, and it is much fun for the kids to feel like in the sea.</p> <p>The pool outside is enjoyable, and it is always a pleasure to swim in the fresh air when water is warm, and water jets, spouts, and whirling creek were very fun. For those who love to relax, the terrace and seats are available as well.</p> <p>Outside they have a sauna available for everybody and inside they have more saunas which are not available for the kids. And of course, jacuzzi where you can relax after water slides.</p> <p>We came just before the lunch and the line to use slides was quite short and moved very fast. Only during our last hour (out of four) it was very crowded inside, and the line was long. If you like water slides, our recommendation would be to come to the park as early as possible.</p> <p>For small kids, it is possible to use Aquafun House on the first floor. Here kids can play or enjoy waterfalls, or try mini slides.</p> <p>The most we liked Anaconda slide which made for families. Here was possible to use three-persons rafts and it was entertaining to use them with the kids. Also, for the kids, it is recommended to use Cameleon. It is not fast slide and inside colors changes like the real Cameleon. Outside it is excellent to use Salto Angel, which is very impressive and was suitable for all our family members and here you can do a small race between each other.</p> <p>For bigger kids and adults it is possible to use the Adventure line, and the fastest slide is Ouragan. It is an 80 meters slide, and it is swift. From the adventure line, we tested this slide first one (it was empty, and we didn't read that it is the fastest :)).</p> <p>Would recommend leaving this slide at the very end, because after this other slides could look to slow :) Another quick slide is outside with the name Bala de Canon. It is fast and at the same time short, and at the very end, you jump to the water like from the trampoline. If you want a longer slide, we will recommend Barracuda. After the waterpark, we didn't want to do anything more, than to relax.</p> <p>We would recommend buying a ticket for all three - Mini-Europe, Atomium, and Oceade (ADAM price during our stay included as well).</p> <p>Parking is available just in the middle between all these locations. During our visit, it cost 6 Euros for the whole day.</p> <p></p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/GOPR4913.jpg" alt="Océade" width="800" height="651" /></p> <h2>Day 4 - Museums day - Autoworld Brussels and Royal Museum of the Armed Forces</h2> <h3>14/14 Autoworld Brussels</h3> <p>During the last day, we visited cars museum Autoworld Brussels. Autoworld Brussels is two floors museum with many cars inside. Majority of old cars are on the first floor and the second floor there are modern generation cars. It was an impressive place to visit for all family.</p> <p>Here we get a lot of information about the history of cars and found vehicles from the very decade (including the private horse carriages). If you come with the kids, do not forget to ask for the quiz. They should definitely like this.</p> <p>Autoworld is a highly-colorful environment adapted for teaching purposes and created to continue evolving on a non-stop basis. It was exciting to analyze the origin of the automobile, and in this museum, it is possible to look at this history closer.</p> <p>Could you imagine the life without a car or a bus during these times? Here you can find how history impacted vehicle development and will see a lot of interesting facts and the roots about the beginning of this industry.</p> <p>It the museum there are over 300 cars in their permanent collection and what is interesting, that they always have a temporary display, and that means that you can always find something new in the museum.</p> <p>In the museum, it is possible to find cars from different periods:</p> <p>- The Belle Epoque</p> <p>- The Great War</p> <p>- The Roaring Twenties</p> <p>- The Thirties</p> <p>- The Second world war</p> <p>- Postwar and the 50s</p> <p>- The 60s-70s-80</p> <p></p> <p><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/U3sNZpAob3U"></iframe></p> <p>You can subscribe to our Youtube channel here:</p> <div class="g-ytsubscribe" data-channelid="UCVSbfN_UQnsmfAgZWUqULKw" data-layout="default" data-count="default"></div> <p><strong>Tips</strong></p> <p>The museum is easily accessible by car. Car parking is available just in front of the museum.</p> <p>If you went to the Autoworld museum, we would recommend you at the same time to visit the Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History which is just on another side of the car parking. We saw this place only when we were in the area, and that day we didn't have time to visit.</p> <h2>Brussels summary</h2> <p><strong>HOW TO FIND THESE PLACES?</strong></p> <p>You can choose any place in "Related places" and will redirect you to the place page. Here you can find the address, location on the map, our review and links to their websites or social media channels.</p> <p><strong>QUESTION AND COMMENTS</strong></p> <p>What would you recommend to visit Brussels with the kids? Let us know in the comments section below.</p> <p>If you visited any of these places, please select from the list and leave your review. For us, it is always interesting to know what other people think.</p> <p><strong>SUPPORT</strong></p> <p>If you want to support this blog, visit our <a href="https://www.patreon.com/myfamilytravelzone" target="_blank">Patreon page</a>.</p> <p><strong>DO NOT SKIP OTHER POSTS</strong></p> <p>For article and blog post like this, subscribe to our newsletter below, and we will send news straight to your inbox;</p> <p>If you prefer to watch videos instead of reading posts, subscribe to your Youtube channel (for notifications click the bell). <a href="http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVSbfN_UQnsmfAgZWUqULKw?sub_confirmation=1" target="_blank">You can join us here</a></p> <p><strong>SHARE WITH FRIENDS</strong></p> <p>If you think, that this post would be interesting to your friends, share this post on your social media (on the left on tablet or button on mobile)</p> <p><strong>OUR NEXT REVIEW: 2 WEEKS WITH KIDS IN PARIS!</strong></p> <p>Thank you for coming to our website and enjoy travel with family!</p> <p>MY FAMILY TRAVEL ZONE</p> <p></p> My Family Travel Zone Belgium Blog August 21, 2018 Baltic amber jewelry in Art Center of Baltic Amber https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/87-baltic-amber-jewelry-in-art-center-of-baltic-amber <p>Art Center of Baltic Amber is located in the Center of Lithuanian capital Vilnius (Address: Šv. Mykolo st 12, LT-2001 Vilnius), close to Church of St. Anne. The art center is an excellent place in a short time visit to learn amber history and to understand how to use it.</p> <p><br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>What to do and see in the Art center of Baltic amber:</strong></span><br /><br /></p> <ul> <li>The first area located in the basement. Here we learned about the amber. Art Center guide told us about the amber road, show the examples of creatures that used to live many years ago, and displayed unique pieces of amber. In the same area, it is possible to find numerous different shapes and colors of amber, to learn why these shapes and colors are different and to know which amber is the most valuable. Do not forget to take a look at the lizard in the amber, which is the most significant exhibit in the art center. It is impressive when you can observe the world of flora and fauna that existed 50 million years ago.</li> <li>The second place in the Art Center is the Sanctum of the pagans. Here it is possible to find out about places, where pagans used to have rituals many years ago, and later we were able to make a wish and throw a pinch of aromatic amber dust to the bonfire. There is a legend that your dreams could become true.</li> <li>The third-place was an amber workshop. It was interesting to access <g class="gr_ gr_39 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar replaceWithoutSep" id="39" data-gr-id="39">to</g> the ancient amber processing tools and find out how it was possible to use them many years ago. In the studio, it is possible to observe or make your amber amulet by yourself. Be advised that for educational program pre-registration is required. Minimal requirement - at least 6 or 7 people. Art center can organize excursion and program in Lithuanian, English and German languages. Duration - up to 1 hour.</li> <li>Also, it was possible to look at amber closer. You can touch it, smell it, taste it, feel it and find out how to separate original amber from artificial.</li> <li>Finally, on the same floor, it is possible to purchase Baltic amber jewelry. It is essential that this jewelry is certified and authentic.</li> </ul> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>VIDEO</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lIhOxqMq2sA"></iframe></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>PICTURES</strong></span></p> <p>Different shapes and colors of amber</p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/Amber-road.jpg" alt="Gallery" width="870" height="580" /></p> <p>Amber studio</p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/Amber-studio.jpg" alt="Studio" width="870" height="573" /></p> <p>Sanctum of the pagans</p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/Sanctum-of-pagans.jpg" alt="Sanctum of the pagans" width="870" height="580" /></p> My Family Travel Zone Lithuania Blog January 10, 2018 Christmas Run | Eurovaistinės Nykštukų Kalėdinis bėgimas |2017 https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/86-christmas-run-eurovaistines-nykstuku-kaledinis-begimas-2017 <p>On 17th of December, 2017 in Vilnius (at Gediminas avenue near Vincas Kudirka square) it was organized the 42nd traditional „EUROVAISTINĖ Christmas Run“. Participants could run <strong>12km, 6km or 3km and </strong>200m <strong>kids</strong> <strong>run</strong>. This year we still run 200 m, but for the next year, we promise to run at least 3 km.<strong> </strong></p> <p></p> <p><iframe width="500" height="280" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fmyfamilytravelzone%2Fvideos%2F250563092315885%2F&width=500&show_text=false&height=280&appId" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>VIDEO</strong></em></span></p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uJCqAaKmSvA"></iframe></p> <p></p> My Family Travel Zone Lithuania Blog December 17, 2017 Birthday party in "Rainbow Pramogų Parkas", Vilnius https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/79-birthday-party-in-rainbow-pramogu-parkas-vilnius <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Address:</strong></span> <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Vilnius, Priegliaus st. 1, two floors (PC PUPA)<br /></span></p> <p><strong><a href="https://rainbowparkas.lt/">Website</a> </strong></p> <p><strong>Description</strong></p> <ul> <li>High-quality playgrounds for children (Rainbow);</li> <li>Safe and secure trampolines "Springfree";</li> <li>"Imagination Playground" for children creativity;</li> <li>Birthday parties;</li> <li>Bubble show.</li> </ul> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>VIDEO</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2b-KsExJu3k"></iframe></strong></span></p> <p>Watch more travel videos, subscribe to our Youtube channel:</p> <div class="g-ytsubscribe" data-channelid="UCVSbfN_UQnsmfAgZWUqULKw" data-layout="default" data-count="default"></div> My Family Travel Zone Lithuania Blog, Adventure Parks, Fun places to go, Fun Rooms, Theme parks November 22, 2017 Chatty Madam | Plepi ponia | Druskininkai | 2017 https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/77-chatty-madam-plepi-ponia-druskininkai-2017 <p><strong>Description:</strong></p> <ul><li>Learn about “Lithuanian summer Center” in XIX cent.;</li> <li>Visit current Druskininkai SPA;</li> <li>Visit former Czar clinics;</li> <li>Taste mineral water;</li> <li>Try „Beauty” spring water;</li> <li>Fascinating facts and legends of the resort’s history and present;</li> <li>Duration - 1 hour;</li> <li>Available the whole year</li> <li>The program needs translation: from Lithuanian or Russian language to the English language (extra fee);</li> <li>The minimum number of people in the group – 10 people;</li> <li>Booking in advance is necessary;</li> <li>Contact information: <span style="color:#2445a2;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/plepiponia/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#2445a2;">Plepi ponia Druskininkuose</span></a></span></li> </ul><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>VIDEO</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ACHChnNeXYs"></iframe></strong></span></p> My Family Travel Zone Lithuania Blog, Educational November 20, 2017 Best ski resorts in the World https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/65-best-ski-resorts-in-the-world <p>In this blog, we will share information about best places for skiing in the world. Join us and share a video of the ski resort (indoor and outdoor) that you visited!</p> My Family Travel Zone Skiing & Snowboarding October 28, 2017 Cruise along the river Nemunas to a historical Liskiava village https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/58-cruise-along-the-river-nemunas-to-a-historical-liskiava-village <p>Review of  Cruise along the river Nemunas to a historical Liskiava village.<br /><br />Address: M. K. Čiurlionio street. 51, Druskininkai, Lithuania<br />Website: <a href="http://www.gelme-druskininkai.lt/index-en.html" target="_blank">Druskininku Gelme</a></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>VIDEO</strong></span></p> <p><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mROT5Xk-LIg"></iframe><br /><br />The whole trip took about three hours (entirely two hours on the ship and one hour in Liškiava). It is possible to go to Liškiava with the car but to use the boat is always more exciting and is an excellent opportunity to spend half a day with family.<br />Liškiava village is valuable in its architectural monuments, castle tower, monastery and a beautiful church.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0006.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="653" /></p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0004.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="653" /></p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0032_1.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="653" /></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog October 22, 2017 Snow Arena https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/55-snow-arena <p>Snow Arena is unique because it is the only indoor skiing complex in all Baltic countries and it is possible to ski all year long.<br />The arena is an excellent solution for people who desire to learn skiing. Inside we found one slope for beginners and main slope with a chairlift, skiing school, plenty of restaurants and kid's playing area. Watch the video how our boys learned to ski with the instructor.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>VIDEO</strong></span></p> <p><iframe width="870" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YQLS9PYouoQ"></iframe><br /><br /><strong>DruSkiSchool</strong><br />We worked with very professional and very experienced instructor. Parents always care about their kid's safety like we are, but with a DruSkiSchool instructor, we understood that our boys are in the safe hands. If you need a perfect instructor for your kids - ask if Erlandas is available!<br /><br /><strong>Beginners' track</strong><br />The instructor started to teach in the beginner's track. This 150 meters length track was a perfect place for our small boys to start learning skiing basics. In the beginning, the instructor introduced how to put on the ski, to stand and the most important - how to stop. We were surprised how easy kid's started to ski with the professional instructor support. In the beginner's track, it was enough to spend one lesson to learn basics.<br /><br /><strong>Main track</strong><br />After learning basics, boys were ready for new challenges. This 460 m length track is open all year, and this track is designed for the skiers who know how to ski or for skiers with the instructor like we did. Here our boys had three more lessons and we can say that it was just amazing and one of the best attractions that our boys had. They were so excited when started to ski without instructor support.<br />Also on the main track is available to try various tricks on specially designed forms. For our children, it was too early :)<br /><br /><strong>Outdoor track</strong><br />This path is open only during winter time and we visited Snow Arena in August, so it was closed.<br /><br /><strong>Lifts</strong><br />Few types of lifts are available in the Snow Arena. In the beginner's track, we used carpet track, and on the main path, for families with kids, the best is to use four-person chairlift. To use this kind of lift for the first time could look a little challenging in the beginning and the end but with instructor assistance, our boys managed to use it very easy.<br /><br /><strong>Equipment rental point</strong><br />Winter clothes are mandatory. If you don't have them  - it is possible to rent at the rental location. We used clothes form Snow Arena and locked our belongings in the lockers.<br /><br /><strong>Restaurants</strong><br />Snow area possesses a few restaurant in the different places. During the warm season, we would recommend trying Aero Gallery Restaurant. The view from outside terrace is just astonishing.<br /><br /><strong>DruFunPark</strong><br />In the DruFunPark our kids found a lot of exciting activities and attractions.<br />Some people arrive at Snow Arena with cableway just to drink a cup of coffee with cake while their kids enjoy attractions in DruFunPark. In this park, it is possible to use climbing ropes, carousels, trampoline, labyrinths and different toys or other educational games. If you arrive at Snow Arena with kids who don't want to ski - it is a perfect place to leave them with a professional childminder.<br /><br /><strong>Karts</strong><br />Just outside of Snow Arena you can try kart track. We tried them and could say that it was impressive 15 minutes drive. It is not easy to bypass another racer because of quite a narrow path, so you have to be very accurate and fast. We tried karts just after the rain, and the track was still wet in some places, so it was even more interesting to drive. We heart that this trail is open the whole year. It would be probably attractive to race on the snow.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>PICTURES</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5103.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="489" /></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5107.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5124.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5126.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="489" /></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5137.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="489" /></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5146.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="489" /></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5229.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5244.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5248.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></strong></span></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Kart, Activities, Skiing & Snowboarding October 8, 2017 Traditional Potato Dish Dzūkiškos Bandos https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/54-traditional-potato-dish-dzukiskos-bandos <p><strong>Website: </strong><span style="color:#2445a2;"><a href="http://www.surusvejai.lt/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#2445a2;">SŪRŪS VĖJAI<span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><br /></strong></span></span></a></span></p> <p>In this cozy place, we had a couple of hours perfect time and enjoyable education how to prepare National potato dish "Bandos."<br />Duration of the program is around 2 hours, and during this period we heart and saw how to make this simple but tasty dish. <br /><br />This dish is Lithuanian heritage, and it was the most popular in one of the Lithuanian regions - Dzūkija (South of Lithuania). People from Dzūkija used to eat this dish regularly because it was easy to prepare and do not require a lot of products. This recipe is very similar and is something between potato pancakes and another dish from mashed potatoes "Plokštainis."<br /><br />If you want to try this heritage, you have to order this dish in advance, and the minimum number of people in the group is about 15.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>VIDEO</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><iframe width="870" height="480" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jirZBOFbapg"></iframe></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>PICTURES</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4788.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="685" /></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4802.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4809.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></strong></span></p> <p></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Educational October 3, 2017 Upside-down House Druskininkai https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/53-upside-down-house-druskininkai <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>VIDEO</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GtQEeuyGe_0"></iframe></strong></span></p> <p></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4645.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="646" /></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Fun places to go, Fun Rooms October 2, 2017 Illusion Rooms Druskininkai https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/52-illusion-rooms-druskininkai <p>We found information about the galaxy and were able to look at our self from the different perspective in the mirror room.<br />In the size room, it was funny to see our smaller boy much taller than his brother.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>VIDEO</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Na2q2cEP-O4"></iframe></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>PICTURES</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4669.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></strong></span></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/MIRROR.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="526" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4700.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Fun places to go, Fun Rooms September 27, 2017 Weekend with family in SPA VILNIUS Druskininkai https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/51-weekend-with-family-in-spa-vilnius-druskininkai <p><strong>Review of  SPA VILNIUS Druskininkai, Lithuania</strong><br /><br /><strong>Address</strong>: K. Dineikos st. 1, 66165 Druskininkai <br /><strong>Website</strong>: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.spavilnius.lt/en/druskininkai" target="_blank">SPA Vilnius Druskininkai</a></span><br /><strong>Book online</strong>: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/lt/spa-vilnius.en.html?aid=1326829&no_rooms=1&group_adults=1" target="_blank" class="btn btn-default">VIEW ON Booking.com</a></span></p> <p>SPA <g class="gr_ gr_36 gr-alert gr_spell gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim ContextualSpelling ins-del" id="36" data-gr-id="36">VILNIUS</g> Druskininkai located in the very center of Druskininkai and it is a perfect choice for vacations with family.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>VIDEO</strong></span></p> <p><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Iy5YqUiaoEk"></iframe></p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">DELUXE</span></strong></p> <ul> <li>In the deluxe, we found two rooms which are great because we traveled with two kids. It was one double bed, one sofa (could be used as a double bed) and a small bed for an infant. We had to do some work on the computer, so the work desk was handy.</li> <li>During the free time in the room, it is possible to use cable TV or connect to WiFi to prepare a cup of tea or coffee with the electric kettle or take a snack (or drink) from the Minibar. If you have some expensive gear (money, apparel), you can leave them in the safe deposit box.</li> <li>In the bathroom,  we found a hairdryer, towels, slippers, shampoo, shower gel, so save space in your luggage for other items that you need.</li> <li>Together with Deluxe, it was involved mineral water swimming pool, sauna's, gym, doctor's consultation <g class="gr_ gr_35 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="35" data-gr-id="35">and</g> morning exercise.</li> </ul> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5020.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4985.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>SWIMMING POOL AND SAUNAs<br /></strong></span></p> <p>In the swimming pool and sauna complex, we found a large enough pool for swimming (almost 20 m). In the same area, tested whirlpool baths, the stone path in the pool which is a great foot massage, and three saunas (regular, steam or Turkish and infrared). Cold water tub after the sauna is an exciting experience (watch video).</p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5079.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5084.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>SPA</strong></span></p> <p>The atmosphere in <g class="gr_ gr_38 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="38" data-gr-id="38"><g class="gr_ gr_38 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="38" data-gr-id="38">SPA</g></g> zone was just fantastic, and everything is prepared to relax, and treatment was high quality. Here you forget all mobile phones and computers (it is not allowed to take them in the SPA). It is suggested to go to take SPA treatment right after the pool and sauna. Be advised that it is not allowed to enter treatment zone with small kids so if you want to leave children in the playroom, check the timings because it doesn't work till the late evening. Anyway, the staff in the SPA is very professional and will advise you what to do and how better to prepare.</p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5100.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></p> <p></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5072.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></p> <p><strong>KIDS PLAYROOM</strong></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5037.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="630" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_5036.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="542" /></p> <p></p> <p></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog September 16, 2017 Amusement Park „Village of Mills“ https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/50-amusement-park-village-of-mills <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Video:</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zKtZnLuMWnI"></iframe></strong></span></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Adventure Parks, Fun places to go September 6, 2017 HBH Palanga https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/49-hbh-palanga <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Video:</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KP9DG9OvBQA"></iframe></strong></span></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Adventure Parks, Zoos & Aquariums September 3, 2017 Sea Museum and Dolphinarium https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/48-sea-museum-and-dolphinarium <p><strong>Review of  Sea Museum and Dolphinarium in Lithuania</strong><br /><br />Address: Smiltynės Str. 3 LT-93100, Klaipėda<br />Website: <a href="http://muziejus.lt/en" target="_blank">Sea Museum and Dolphinarium</a><br /><br /><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>IN THIS REVIEW</strong></span></p> <ul><li>Video</li> <li>Location, how to get there and when to visit</li> <li>Dolphinarium</li> <li>California sea lions</li> <li>Fishing vessels and farmstead</li> <li>Fort</li> <li>Aquarium</li> <li>Eat and drink</li> </ul><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Video</strong></span></p> <p><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K29mFcYdxWs"></iframe></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Location, how to get there and when to visit</strong></span></p> <ul><li>Museum located in an excellent place near Baltic Sea "Smiltyne." To get to "Smiltyne," you have to take ferry or boat from Klaipeda. The distance from the ferry is around 1,5 km, and you can go with the bus (it was free during our visit) or select more romantic ways of travel (carriage or little train). With some boats, it is possible to go straight to the Sea museum and Dolphinarium, but you have to check it before going.</li> <li>The museum is the perfect place for all family, and it is possible to spend all day inside or outside of Museum and Dolphinarium.</li> <li>It is possible to visit during the whole year, but some events like Sea lions show will not be open.</li> </ul><p><br /><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Dolphinarium</strong></span></p> <ul><li>Last time we been in Dolphinarium, it was almost 9 or ten years ago. Since our last time, it was reconstruction, and now Dolphinarium looks much more modern, and living space for dolphins have expanded. It was possible to see Dolphins not only during the show but from the first floor it was possible to see them under water.</li> <li>Dolphins are not just because of the show, but it is more to look at the green side and to understand how beautiful Dolphins are in reality. During the last 50 years were catastrophic for Dolphins because of the human activity Dolphin population has decreased many times. Dolphins are very friendly and want to communicate with people. Dolphins helped fishers during fishing periods to move fishes to the net. It is very similar to the dog's function during the hunting. For that, they expected reward and people usually left some fish for the Dolphins.</li> <li>For dolphins to swim near the ship is a great amusement, and it is very similar to going with the bicycle after the car (easier to cycle for the driver and for the dolphin it is simpler to swim).</li> <li>Did you know that dolphin can survive without an oxygen just about 10 minutes, so if the Dolphin hit the net, usually they just choke? And it is the truth. Modern nets work like a repellent and deter Dolphins from in the ship to avoid being cached. I never knew that on the can of Tuna you could check if these fish were caught using new nets which save dolphins life or not.</li> </ul><p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0035.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="405" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4170.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="467" /><br /><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>California sea lions</strong></span></p> <ul><li>To see sea lions show in the open pool is possible during summer time. Like dolphins, Californian sea lions are mammals as well. It was a great show and great opportunity to see these beautiful animals.</li> </ul><p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4200.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="478" /></p> <p><br /><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Fishing vessels and farmstead</strong></span></p> <ul><li>On the way from ferry and Dolphinarium building, it is possible to observe old fishing ships. Inside one ship (Dubingiai) we found an exhibition about fishing at sea.</li> <li>Very close to the ships it is possible to see an ethnographical fisherman's farmstead with all furniture and fishing equipment from the historical times.</li> </ul><p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4258.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="554" /></p> <p><br /><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Fort</strong></span></p> <ul><li>During the World War II, the fort was destroyed and restored as a museum in 1978. For a few years, it was reconstruction for external part of the fort and was repaired the bridge to the fort. The trench around the fort was cleaned first time since 1978. Without all mud, it cleaners removed few hundreds of shells which left after the second World War. In the fort, it was German's storehouse, and what they didn't destroy they just dropped to the trench. All shells were removed safely and didn't detonate. In the fort, we found a lot of models of historic ships and boats, anchors, how forth looked in the past. From outside it is also possible to see penguins, seals, pelicans, sea lions and some other animals.</li> </ul><p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0027.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="562" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4146.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="518" /></p> <p><br /><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Aquarium</strong></span></p> <ul><li>During our visit aquarium was under reconstruction and according to staff, it should start working in the Autumn of 2017. If you go to Sea museum when the aquarium is open, just share your opinion in the comments below.</li> </ul><p><br /><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Eat and drink</strong></span></p> <ul><li>On the first floor, it is possible to get lunch in the Dolphinarium and on the roof is an excellent Cafe where you can drink coffee with an exclusive view to the sea.</li> </ul><p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4209.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></p> <p></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Zoos & Aquariums August 29, 2017 Vinettu Village https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/47-vinettu-village <p>Address: Šlikiai Village, Kretingalė, LT-96330 Klaipėda District<br />Website: <a href="http://vinetukaimas.lt/en/">Vinetu kaimas</a><br /><br /><strong>In this review:</strong></p> <ul><li>Video</li> <li>My family visit to Indian village</li> <li>How to get there</li> <li>Tips</li> </ul><p><br /><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>VIDEO</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IsSARU5uwJQ"></iframe></strong></span></p> <p></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>My family visit to Indian village</strong></span></p> <ul><li>All village is a very cozy place with plenty of different Indian tents, summer houses, playground for children, volleyball pitch, museum, Indian restaurant, sauna and much more.</li> <li>In the beginning, we met Indian with the name Vinetu. Famous Indian introduced us with interesting facts about Indians and painted our faces. We had to think - what kind of animal could we be? We selected Lion, White Tiger, Pantera and Weasel (a couple of days ago we visited Klaipėda zoo, and it could influence our decisions:)).</li> <li>In the Indian tent "TIPI" Vinetu introduced us to American Indian history, culture, manners, we played games and had to answer interesting questions.</li> <li>Shooting range. We liked that it was possible to use arcs for our kids.</li> <li>Local "Indians" organize a lot of events for families, children, and adults (birthday, wedding parties, educational programs, summer camps for children, etc.). For more details visit Indian village website.</li> </ul><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>How to get there:</strong></span></p> <ul><li>Vinetu village located between Palanga and Klaipeda, in the western part of Lithuania;</li> <li>24 km from Klaipėda center or 16 km from Palanga center;</li> <li>The best way to use car or taxi.</li> </ul><p></p> <p><strong>Highly recommend visiting with family!</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>Pictures</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4053.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4090.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4130.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></strong></span></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Theme parks August 25, 2017 Kitesurfing Spot in Svencelė, Lithuania https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/46-kitesurfing-spot-in-svencele-lithuania myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing August 21, 2017 Let's sail to Nida (Keltas į Nidą SMILTYNĖ) https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/45-let-s-sail-to-nida-keltas-i-nida-smiltyne <p><strong>Review of  Fast boat SMILTYNĖ</strong><br /><br />Address: Danes str. 1, Klaipeda, Lithuania<br />Website: <a href="https://www.keltas.lt/en/home/"><span style="color:#2445a2;">JSC „Smiltynės perkėla.“</span></a><br /><br /><strong>In this review:</strong></p> <ul><li>Video</li> <li>Ship review</li> <li>Pictures</li> </ul><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>VIDEO</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3MZKjMVdVos"></iframe></strong></span></p> <p></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>SHIP REVIEW<br /></strong></span></p> <p>Fast boat (ferry) is the straight way to sail from Klaipėda to Nida with a shortstop in Juodkrante. For us, it took about 2 hours to reach Nida. This way of travel to Nida was re-established in 2014 (after more than 70 years break). The primary purpose of this project is to encourage people to leave their vehicles in Klaipėda and to travel by ships and ferries. 72 seats are available on board and ship can carry up to 43 bicycles. In the main deck of the ship is an indoor passenger saloon with panoramic windows and an open passenger deck with an observation platform.</p> <p>72 seats are available on board and ship can carry up to 43 bicycles. In the main deck of the ship is an indoor passenger saloon with panoramic windows and an open passenger deck with an observation platform. WiFi and audio guide is available.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>TRAVEL TIPS</strong></span></p> <ul><li><strong>Get your bicycle if possible.</strong> The majority of travelers take their personal or rent a bike when going to Nida. We didn't have bicycles and had to walk a lot of kilometers. With bicycles, everything would be easier. During our visit, it was free of charge to take the bike on the ferry.</li> <li><strong>Food and drinks.</strong> The coffee maker can be found on the ferry. There is no possibility to buy any food on the ship, so if you think that you will not survive these two hours - take some snacks. Be advised that it is not allowed to eat inside the ferry (just outside the main room).</li> <li>Views are fantastic when traveling with SMILTYNE. <strong>Highly recommend!</strong></li> </ul><p><br /><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>PICTURES</strong></span></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog August 20, 2017 Weekend in Atostogų parkas, Palanga, Lithuania https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/44-weekend-in-atostogu-parkas-palanga-lithuania <p><strong>Review of  Atostogų parkas (Lithuania)</strong><br /><br />Address: Venecijos aklg. 2, Žibininkai, Lithuania<br />Website: <a href="http://atostoguparkas.lt/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#2445a2;">Atostogų parkas</span></a><br />Book online: <a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/lt/natura-resort.lt.html" target="_blank"><span style="color:#2445a2;">Booking.com Deals</span></a><br /><br />Vacation park and hotel "Atostogų parkas" is located just 7 km from Palanga center and is a great place to stay with family during vacation.</p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">IN THIS REVIEW</span></strong></p> <ul><li>Video</li> <li>Accommodation Zone</li> <li>Pools and Sauna</li> <li>SPA Zone</li> <li>When to visit?</li> <li>Tips</li> <li>Pictures</li> </ul><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>VIDEO</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><iframe width="620" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/H1NVcTlxWTs"></iframe></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>ACCOMODATION ZONE</strong></span></p> <ul><li>It is possible to book a room or villa in "Atostogų parkas." This time we lived in Two-story log villa. On the first floor, it was a large sitting room with big bed, TV, kettle, and fireplace. On the second floor, it was two more rooms (first room with double bed and the second room with two single beds).</li> <li>We loved outside terrace (between pines) which is just perfect when traveling with kids. In the evening we prepared some barbeque (it was possible to order firewood and meat) and enjoyed the great weather.</li> <li>Car parking is free (near the entrance to Villa's zone)! However, it was possible to arrive with our vehicle near villa door to unload luggage.</li> </ul><p><br /><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>POOLS AND SAUNA</strong></span></p> <ul><li>As always, this is the most attractive place for our boys because they just love pools (who doesn't like :)). "Atostogų parkas" has seven pools inside and five outside. We visited "Atostogų parkas" in July, so it was possible to test all of them.</li> <li>Pool zone is suitable from the smallest to the oldest. Little kids can enjoy in a small pool, which is designed especially for them. For swimmers, it is possible to use largest pools inside and outside.</li> <li>Also, during our stay, "Atostogų parkas" had an exclusive mineralized geothermal water pool "Mineral Sea," which is full of minerals and is excellent for your body. It is suggested to stay in this pool at least 20 min, and it is more for adults than children.</li> <li>Walking through small pools with stones on the floor was an enjoyable experience. The first pool was with cold water, second with warm, again cold and warm.</li> </ul><p><br /><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>SPA ZONE</strong></span></p> <ul><li>In the SPA Zone, you can relax and enjoy quiet while your children will spend time in an educational studio with the professional teacher. Experts in "Atostogų parkas" will advise how to select the most suitable procedure for your body.</li> </ul><p><br /><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>WHEN TO VISIT?</strong></span></p> <ul><li>The best months to visit Palanga is June to August, but to visit "Atostogų parkas" you can during the whole year. The weather in Lithuania and Palanga could change anytime. If the sun is shining outside, you can go to the sea, but if it is raining or windy outside, you can always stay in "Atostogų parkas" and will always find what to do. Check the prices during different seasons on <span style="color:#2445a2;"><a href="https://www.booking.com/hotel/lt/natura-resort.lt.html" target="_blank"><span style="color:#2445a2;">Booking.com</span></a></span>!</li> </ul><p><br /><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>L</strong></span><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>OCATION</strong></span></p> <ul><li>7 km from Palanga center, 34 km from Klaipėda center, 7,5 km from Palanga Airport!</li> </ul><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>PICTURES</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0023.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="566" /></strong></span></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4398_1.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="580" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_4362.jpg" alt="" width="870" height="496" /></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Adventure Parks, Fun places to go, Water parks August 16, 2017 Kitesurfing lesson in Švencelė, Lithuania https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/43-kitesurfing-lesson-in-svencele-lithuania <p><strong>Review of  Kitesurfing.lt school</strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><br /></strong></span><br /><span style="color:#2445a2;"><a href="http://www.kaitavimas.lt/en/" target="_blank">Website<strong></strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><br /><br /></strong></span></a><span style="color:#4a4a4a;"><strong>In this review:</strong></span><br /></span></p> <ul><li><span style="color:#4a4a4a;">Video</span></li> <li><span style="color:#4a4a4a;">Our experience</span></li> <li><span style="color:#4a4a4a;">How to get there</span></li> <li><span style="color:#4a4a4a;">Tips</span></li> </ul><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>VIDEO</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/35NbA4-NjyM"></iframe></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>OUR EXPERIENCE</strong></span></p> <p>We already had one short kitesurfing lesson before in Surftown school in Tallinn, and it was with small kites that are suitable for training and kids fun. This time we had a new experience and tested real kite. As a first lesson, everything was on the ground! To tell the truth, a few years ago I tried real kite for a short period with my friend, but without an instructor, everything looked much more complicated.<br />The day in Švencelė was just perfect for beginners. The sun was shining, and the wind was not too strong neither too weak. This kind of entertainment is attractive because it is completely different from the majority of regular activities (like hiking, sightseeing, etc.) when you prefer good weather. Very frequently people say that it is windy outside, and they say that the weather is bad, but kitesurfers, windsurfers would probably laugh at these people because for them is vice-versa - the more wind, the better it is. From the first view, kitesurfing could look like very complicated, but at on the ground, everything was comfortable, and instructor controls each situation. In the very beginning me, like the majority of beginners started to "drive the car," and that was one of the biggest lessons I had to learn and fix. I know some people that had some quite traumas during kitesurfing, but I think that majority of them happens when you do not feel comfortable enough or know something. That is why we always try to consult the people, who are the real professionals because it is much faster and safer. I liked this lesson and in the future will try to kitesurf more. Of course, we travel with kid's, and at the moment they are 5 and six years old, and Kitesurfing schools usually start teaching from around 12 (sometimes and earlier).</p> <p><strong>HOW TO GET THERE</strong></p> <ul><li>It is about 35 km from Klaipėda City center or about 80 km from Palanga. The best way to travel would be with the car. Contact instructors if you can't go to Švencelė because they have few more places near Baltic sea.</li> </ul> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Activities, Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing August 10, 2017 Klaipėda Zoo https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/42-klaipeda-zoo <p><strong>Review of  Klaipėda zoo (Lithuania)</strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><br /><br /></strong></span>Address: Durpyno str., Jonušai 96173<br /><span style="color:#2445a2;"><a href="http://zoosodas.com/" target="_blank">Website</a><strong></strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><br /><br /></strong></span><span style="color:#4a4a4a;"><strong>In this review:</strong></span><br /></span></p> <ul><li><span style="color:#4a4a4a;">Video</span></li> <li><span style="color:#4a4a4a;">First impression</span></li> <li><span style="color:#4a4a4a;">How to get there</span></li> <li><span style="color:#4a4a4a;">Tips</span></li> </ul><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>VIDEO</strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong><iframe width="580" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/swVoG1w-KVM"></iframe></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>FIRST IMPRESSION</strong></span><br />We were in Klaipėda zoo a few years ago, and that time it was a mini zoo. It looks like that now status has changed, and the zoo is much bigger. Now they have many animals, like lions, camels, bears, white tigers and much more.<br />We visited the zoo in the second part of the day, and the majority of animals were sleeping (but not big beautiful white tiger). We liked that we could see animals from a minimal distance and some of them it was possible to feed or even to touch. Our kids were excited when they entered a room with small white tigers. Not every day you can feel this kind of animal. It is possible to find small Tigers just a few months per year (later they become not so little and friendly :))</p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>HOW TO GET THERE</strong></span></p> <ul><li>Distance from Klaipėda center around 15 km. Located near highway from Klaipėda to Kaunas;</li> <li>The best way to travel by car or Taxi.</li> </ul><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>TIPS</strong></span></p> <ul><li>If you want to see animals more active - arrive in the first part of day;</li> <li>Small white tigers are available only few months per year, so if you want to touch them - check information on the zoo website or call them and ask;</li> <li>To enter a room with small animals you will need to pay separate fee (we write this because we saw few visitors in front of us who didn't read instructions);</li> <li>Ask staff at the beginning about the possibility to feed animals. If you travel with kids, they will love to do it.</li> </ul><p>Thank's for reading and watching. If you like this review or website, please <strong>join</strong> us on social media or <strong>share</strong> this with your friends!<br />If you recently visited Klaipėda zoo, <strong>share</strong> your experience in the <strong>comments</strong> below!<br /><br />Enjoy travel!<br />myfamilytravelzone.com</p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Zoos & Aquariums August 2, 2017 Dino Park Radailiai https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/41-dino-park-radailiai <p><strong>Review of  Dino Park in Radailiai (Lithuania)</strong></p> <ul><li>Address: Radailiai, Klaipeda 92404, Lithuania</li> <li><a href="http://dino.lt/en/" target="_blank">Website</a></li> </ul><p><strong>In this review:</strong></p> <ul><li>Video</li> <li>How to get there</li> <li>First impression</li> <li>Tips</li> <li>Pictures</li> </ul><p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">VIDEO</span></strong></p> <p><iframe width="580" height="379" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4HEwH8pzkgg"></iframe></p> <p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>FIRST IMPRESSION</strong></span></p> <p>Before going to Dino Park, we didn't have enough time to check what do they have in the park and arrived in the evening (had just about one hour). But when we arrived, we understood, that one hour would not be enough. Here we found the whole amusement park with a lot of great entertainment for our kid's. And they didn't want to go away :) During this hour we were able to try just a part of attractions and decided to revisit park another day! And we did it! If you visit Dino Park with kid's - we recommend planning at least 3 to 4 hours (possible to stay almost whole day). All attractions inside the park were free, and we just had to buy the ticket for entrance!</p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration:underline;">HOW TO GET THERE</span><br /></strong></p> <ul><li>The best way to use a car (type Dino Park or Dino parkas or Radailiai);</li> <li>If you don't have a car, use Taxi (Dino Park located around 13 km from Klaipeda center).</li> </ul><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>TIPS</strong></span></p> <ul><li>If you travel with kids (especially small) - it will make it better to arrive in the first half of day because of a lot of entertainment;</li> <li>Child's age - depends from kid's (check attractions in our video and pictures)!</li> </ul><p><span style="text-decoration:underline;"><strong>PICTURES</strong></span></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_3840.jpg" alt="" width="2184" height="1456" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_00222.jpg" alt="" width="2216" height="1891" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_00322.jpg" alt="myfamilytravelzone.com" width="2000" height="1500" /></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_00092.jpg" alt="" width="2760" height="2026" /></p> <p></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Adventure Parks, Fun places to go, Movie theaters July 31, 2017 COSMOS https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/40-cosmos <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9jZ1ZKglj3I"></iframe></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Fun places to go, Fun Rooms July 12, 2017 Try foresters cap https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/38-try-foresters-cap <p></p> <p>We found a unique attraction in the vicinity of Palanga. Professional forester helps to understand about forest, animals, and birds by organizing guided tours in the forests. In the movie, you will find our experience, and your experience could be completely different.</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IoXiJglveU4"></iframe></p> <p></p> <p><strong>What do you thing about this kind of attraction? Write in the comments below!</strong></p> <p><strong> Let's support this initiative and SHARE this post and video with your friends (you can do it by clicking on social media icon)!<br /></strong></p> <p><strong>For more information contact Forester directly: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pasimatuokeiguliokepure/?fref=ts" target="_blank" class="btn btn-default">Click Here</a><br /></strong></p> <p></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Fun places to go, Educational July 9, 2017 Monciškės, Palanga, Lithuania https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/37-monciskes-palanga-lithuania <p>An article in progress!</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/alDC7nTrs4s"></iframe></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Beaches, Activities July 7, 2017 Horse Museum (Arklio Muziejus) https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/36-horse-museum-arklio-muziejus <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kFVYOdJSlyA"></iframe></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Fun places to go July 4, 2017 Narrow Gauge Railway in Anykščiai (Siaurukas) https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/35-narrow-gauge-railway-in-anyksciai-siaurukas <p>An article in progress</p> <p><iframe width="480" height="350" style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5870S7ynjHU"></iframe></p> <p><strong>Thank's for watching and reading! For more information, please join us on social media or subscribe to our newsletter:</strong><br /><strong>Youtube</strong> (new videos every week): <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVSbfN_UQnsmfAgZWUqULKw">Our Channel</a><br /><strong>Facebook</strong>: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/myfamilytravelzone/">My Family Travel Zone Facebook Page</a><br /><strong>Instagram</strong>: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/myfamilytravelzone/">My Family Travel Zone Instagram</a><br /><strong>Twitter</strong>: <a href="https://twitter.com/myfamilytravelz">My Family Travel Zone Twitter</a></p> <p><strong>Share this with your Friends!</strong></p> <p>Enjoy travel!</p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Fun places to go June 29, 2017 Swinging Bridge in Mikeriai (Bezdžionių tiltas) https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/34-swinging-bridge-in-mikeriai-bezdzioniu-tiltas <p>Mikeriu Bridge or Swinging Bridge is a pedestrian bridge over river Šventoji (about 30 km from Anykščiai) connecting Mikieriai and Inkunai.</p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0032.jpg" alt="Swinging bridge front" style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;" width="533" height="400" /><br />According to open sources, bridge length is 80 meters, and it is 1,2 meters width. Its constructions are reliable. However, it is at least strange to walk through the bridge when everything is moving and swinging.</p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0044.jpg" alt="Bridge other side" style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;" width="533" height="400" /><br /><br />We didn't expect that close to the bridge there are much more places to visit and just in the area, we identified that to visit all these objects requires much more time when we had.</p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_3530small.jpg" alt="On the swinging bridge" style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;" width="600" height="400" /><br /><br />If you visit this region, we recommend you to plan couples of hours for walking around.<br /><br />Take extra clothes because in the forest will be enough mosquitos (at least it was during our visit)!<br /><br /><strong>Thank's for reading! For more information, please join us on social media or subscribe to our newsletter:</strong><br /><strong>Youtube</strong> (new videos every week): <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVSbfN_UQnsmfAgZWUqULKw">Our Channel</a><br /><strong>Facebook</strong>: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/myfamilytravelzone/">My Family Travel Zone Facebook Page</a><br /><strong>Instagram</strong>: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/myfamilytravelzone/">My Family Travel Zone Instagram</a><br /><strong>Twitter</strong>: <a href="https://twitter.com/myfamilytravelz">My Family Travel Zone Twitter</a></p> <p><strong>Share this with your Friends!</strong></p> <p>Enjoy travel!</p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog June 28, 2017 Traukinukas in Anykščiai https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/33-traukinukas-in-anyksciai <p>Traukinukas will take you from <a href="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/30-theme-park-in-anyksciai-dainuvos-nuotykiu-slenis">Theme Park in Anykščiai</a>, Vilniaus street. 95. and will drive you to the final destination: The <a href="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/27-the-treetop-walking-path-laju-takas">Treetop Walking Path</a>. In the same location, you will find Puntukas stone. <br />It is a comfortable and satisfying experience.</p> <p><iframe width="768" height="632" style="margin-left:auto;margin-right:auto;" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_2mC8zaqfZo"></iframe></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Fun places to go June 25, 2017 The Geographical Center Of Europe https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/32-the-geographical-center-of-europe <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HNZpNL5C5Uo"></iframe></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0003.JPG" alt="Geographical Center Of Europe" width="2776" height="2206" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0005_1.JPG" alt="Geographical Center Of Europe" width="2000" height="1500" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0002.JPG" alt="Geographical Center Of Europe" width="2000" height="1500" /></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Europe, Lithuania Blog June 25, 2017 Kart Racing in Motorsportas, Anykščiai https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/31-kart-racing-in-motorsportas-anyksciai <p>An article in process</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NooJv2bgjzQ"></iframe></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_3265.jpg" alt="" width="5184" height="3456" /></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Kart June 25, 2017 Theme park in Anykščiai / Dainuvos nuotykių slėnis https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/30-theme-park-in-anyksciai-dainuvos-nuotykiu-slenis <p>An article in the process!</p> <p>Video</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GI2fTgxWwDw"></iframe></p> myfamilytravelzone.com Lithuania Blog, Adventure Parks June 21, 2017 Wake Pond (Wake park in Anykščiai) https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/28-wake-pond-wake-park-in-anyksciai <p>First time in wake park in Anykščiai!</p> <p>It was interesting to watch, but it was much more exciting to try!</p> <p>More about Wake Pond and wake parks will prepare later. Our experience in the video!</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lpcO7EnXekM"></iframe></p> <p>First time on Wakeboard. It took around 15 to 20 minutes to understand basics. Great attraction and sport!</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7QkUqnOq3OA"></iframe></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0008.gif" alt="Wake park in Anykščiai" width="4000" height="3000" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0016.gif" alt="Wake park in Anykščiai" width="2000" height="1204" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_3309.jpg" alt="Wake park in Anykščiai" width="2761" height="1833" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_3329.gif" alt="Wake park in Anykščiai" width="2184" height="1456" /></p> myfamilytravelzone Lithuania Blog, Wake parks, Activities June 18, 2017 The Treetop Walking Path / Lajų takas https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/27-the-treetop-walking-path-laju-takas <p>An article in progress.</p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0046.JPG" alt="" width="2000" height="1500" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/GOPR0324.jpg" alt="" width="2184" height="1456" /></p> <p>Video:</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yBCM6M4UyQw"></iframe></p> Inga S. Lithuania Blog June 15, 2017 Kalita Hill / Kalitos kalnas https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/26-kalita-hill-kalitos-kalnas <p>An article in progress</p> <p>Video:</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YWRVIuMBLO8"></iframe></p> <p></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0031.JPG" alt="" width="2000" height="1500" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0020.JPG" alt="" width="2000" height="1500" /></p> myfamilytravelzone Lithuania Blog, Adventure Parks, Fun places to go June 14, 2017 Maze park and Upside-down house (Labirintų parkas ir Apverstas namas) in Anykščiai https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/25-maze-park-and-upside-down-house-labirintu-parkas-ir-apverstas-namas-in-anyksciai <p>An article is in the process.</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aTeba0vIDgM"></iframe></p> Inga S. Lithuania Blog, Adventure Parks, Fun places to go June 13, 2017 White Bridge in Vilnius https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/24-white-bridge-in-vilnius <p>White bridge and its surroundings are beautiful and quite place near Neri's sea where a lot of peoples from Vilnius just take some snacks, mat and enjoy outdoors. On the other side of the bridge, it is possible to play volleyball.</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Uh9Lhou9nO4"></iframe></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0015.JPG" alt="White Bridge in Vilnius" width="2000" height="1500" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0005.JPG" alt="White Bridge in Vilnius" width="2000" height="1500" /></p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/DJI_0007.JPG" alt="White Bridge in Vilnius" width="2000" height="1500" /></p> Inga S. Lithuania Blog June 8, 2017 Lake paežeriai / Paežerių ežeras https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/23-lake-paezeriai-paezeriu-ezeras <p>During our travel, we found interesting information for our self, and at the same, we educate our kids. The primary information about lake according to open sources:</p> <ul><li>Lenght - 3,3 km;</li> <li>Width - 1,3 km;</li> <li>Average depth - 7 to 8 m;</li> <li>Deepest point - 12,7 m.</li> </ul> Inga S. Lithuania Blog June 5, 2017 Paežeriai Manor / Paežerių dvaras https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/22-paezeriai-manor-paezeriu-dvaras <p>If you will we near Vilkaviskis, like we were, we recommend visiting PAEZERIU Manor which is just a few kilometers from the city.  The location is excellent, and surroundings are beutifull. Find more in our video below!</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NauygAPQ0ug"></iframe></p> Inga S. Lithuania Blog June 5, 2017 Flight over Vilkaviškis https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/21-flight-over-vilkaviskis <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vWZh1iwLBdQ"></iframe></p> myfamilytravelzone Lithuania Blog June 5, 2017 Seaplane harbour (Lennusadam), Estonian Maritime Museum https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/20-seaplane-harbour-lennusadam-estonian-maritime-museum <p>To tell the truth, we were surprised when we entered the Seaport Harbour. The museum is modern and impressive for adults and children.<br />The museum is in a huge hanger. Harbour ceiling occupied by small boats. The most impressive exhibit for us was the submarine Lembit that our family could explore from inside.<br /><br />The Seaplane Harbour Museum was a fabulous place for our family. We found their impressive ships, interactive screens with interesting information about ships, museum, and history, search and rescue helicopter with tents, boats, sailing ships and other interesting things and actions. <br /><br />After the exhibition, it is possible to have lunch or a cup of coffee in a restaurant for a reasonable price or to purchase a souvenir at the gift shop near the entrance.<br /><br />What to do for kids?<br />- Playground;<br />- Weapons;<br />- Interactive screens;<br />- Cafe;<br />- Remote control ship;<br />- Inside the submarine.<br /><br />Usually, museums are quite boring for children, but Harbour have many exciting activities for kids!<br />The excellent museum and perfect time with family! Highly recommend!</p> <p></p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MhXV4yrDXpk"></iframe></p> <p></p> <p><strong>If you liked this article and found it helpful, please follow us on social media below and get more travel tips first. If you have questions or if you would like to share your experience about the visit to Seaport Harbour, just write a comment below.</strong></p> <p><strong>For more information contact museum directly:</strong></p> <p><a href="http://meremuuseum.ee/lennusadam/en/" class="btn btn-default">Harbour Website!</a></p> Inga S. Estonia Blog May 30, 2017 Pirita Adventure Park https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/17-pirita-adventure-park <p><strong>Adventure Park Overview</strong><br />The last day of our trip to Tallinn we visited Pirita Adventure Park - climbing the trees. From old town, we traveled by bus around 15 - 20 minutes, and it was very comfortable. We were very close to the park couple days ago during cycling to TV Tower, and it would be an option to arrive at Pirita park with the bicycles.<br /><br />Pirita park has a lot of different trails with a perfect view of the sea, but we decided to try only those which are suitable for our four and six years old boys.<br /><br />Pirita offered two options for our kids - a park which is suitable for children up to 115 cm height and above this height. Our junior was below 115 cm boundary so he could enjoy only kids park. Later we understood that children below this limit just would not be able to reach ropes with safety equipment and it will not be possible to climb.<br /><br />Safety rules are critical before this adventure. Consequently, we received a full safety briefing, received safety harness and started from the kid's park.<br /><br />Like I already mentioned before, kid's playground is suitable for children above 115 cm, and it is suitable from two years old till suggested height. Actually, as a warm up, this park was suitable for our six years old son.<br /><br />According to instructors to complete all paths will need between two and a half and three hours (for adults). For children up to 140 cm, it is possible to access only first three paths. We tried them, and for us, it took around one and a half hour.<br /><br />That was an excellent attraction, and it would be a perfect place for birthday parties for children or adults!</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YkLyEwKQwWU"></iframe></p> <p><strong>If you liked this article and found it helpful, please follow us on social media below and get more travel tips first. If you have questions or if you would like to share your experience about the visit to Pirita Adventure Park, just write a comment below.</strong></p> <p><strong>For more information contact directly Pirita park:</strong></p> <p><a href="http://piritaseikluspark.ee/en/" target="_blank" class="btn btn-default">Pirita Website</a></p> Inga S. Estonia Blog, Adventure Parks, Fun places to go May 18, 2017 Climbing in Ronimisministeerium https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/16-climbing-in-ronimisministeerium <p>Climbing is a unique sport that is accessible to adults and children, and in Ministry of climbing, we found all we needed for kids and us.<br /><br />In the beginning, staff introduced us with the safety rules, climbing advantages, and how to use climbing facilities properly. According to the instructor, climbing helps to develop almost all muscle groups, mental features, and train to achieve personal goals.<br />For beginners, it is always good when somebody explains and shows where to start and what to do.  If you plan to visit Ministry of climbing for the first time, we recommend checking in Ronimisministeerium (in short they call it RonMin) website when the instructor is available. With him, it would be much faster to understand the finer points of climbing. However, it wouldn't be a big issue to understand what to do, and I am sure that other climbers would help.<br /><br />In the Ministry of climbing walls are around 4 m height, and on the ground, there are thick mattresses. Hence there is no need to use Climbing ropes, and because of that the better world to call this attraction is bouldering. And bouldering is not simple activity and requires physical strength because during climbing works practically all muscles, especially fingers and forearms. To tell the truth, it was the real sport, and we did the solid workout.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/FotoJet%20Collage22.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1080" /><br /><br /><strong>Clothing and shoes</strong><br />To tell the truth, we were not prepared enough for this kind of activity and didn't take proper clothes. Probably the best choice would be sports clothes (T-shirts and long or short sleeve pants). There is no need to have shoes because RonMin will give you special one.<br /><br /><strong>Climbing for children</strong><br />For our kid's wall climbing was one of the best attractions from the visit to Tallinn because children love action. Anyway, they didn't want to go away for a long time, and it's an indicator for us that this activity fits our family range. Be advised that children are allowed to be in the gym until 1800. RonMin does this because of safety reasons.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/FotoJet%20Collage33.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1080" /><br /><br /><strong>Events and activities</strong><br />The central attraction is, of course, bouldering but also it is possible to do much more actions like walking on the rope, climbing on the rope, use of pull ups bar and other equipment for advanced users.<br />At the end of our visit, we saw a group of children, and we thought that is would probably is the perfect place to celebrate children birthdays or to go out with your friends or colleagues. Later than we came back home, we checked that RonMin organizes a lot of events for companies, birthday parties, competitions or bachelor parties and it is highly feasible that we will use this idea during events back at home.<br /><br /><strong>My family tips</strong><br />- Take sportswear;<br />- Have towels and other material for shower;<br />- Use this kind of activity as a regular sport;<br />- Do not forget to invite friends to birthday parties or other events.<br /><br /><strong>Recommendations</strong><br />When we went outside our kids told us - when we will come back home, can we go to the similar wall climbing? I think that answers every question.</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GhjJeOFtgXQ"></iframe><br /><br /><strong>If you liked this article and found it helpful, please follow us on social media below and get more travel tips first. If you have questions or if you would like to share your experience about the visit to RonMin, just write a comment below.</strong></p> <p><strong>For more information contact directly Ministry of Climbing Instructors:</strong></p> <p><a href="http://www.ronimisministeerium.ee/" class="btn btn-default">RonMin Website</a></p> Inga S. Estonia Blog, Climbing & Bouldering, Activities May 14, 2017 Kitesurfing lesson in Surftown school in Tallinn https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/15-kitesurfing-lesson-in-surftown-school-in-tallinn <p>Kite is the device which stays in the year with the support of wind. Kitesurfing is full of adrenaline, strength, and sense of freedom extreme sport for everyone. It is an opportunity to escape from routine and to have unusual and active time. This kind of entertainment is becoming more and more popular throughout the world and is unique because it combines different kinds of sports, like snowboarding, windsurfing, water-skiing, surfing, and paragliding. You just have to glide on the surface of the water using the board and can jump or do different tricks.<br /><br />It looks very attractive and impressive, but it requires training and a lot of practice. The best way to get this practice is to find and consult with professionals. And it is what we did - consulted with Surfboard team in Tallinn.</p> <p><img src="http://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/FotoJet%20Collage2.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1080" /><br /><br />Kristiin and Jane from Surftown school are real fanatics and very professional trainers with vast experience as instructors, and they understand how to engage children. We were surprised to hear that they have expertise even in the World level Championships. Now they share their experience with others.  So far our kids are too small for kitesurfing (if we remember accurately, officially they can start from around 12 years). Nevertheless, surfboard team did an excellent theoretical introduction about kitesurfing,  wind directions, and speed, how to launch and land kite and gave us an enjoyable, practical lesson with small (about 1,5 square meters) training kite.<br /><br />Before coming to surfing school, our family had quite a long day with cycling and visiting TV Tower, and that was the reason why in the beginning our boys looked a little exhausted. But from the first second, they touched kite steering strip and felt wind power they wake up and started to enjoy this attraction. The wind was pretty strong, so our 4 and 6-year-old boys need some adult assistance.<br />Our family enjoyed this attraction and will look forward to possibilities to learn to kitesurf in the future.<br /><br />If your family wants to have an active time and to learn kitesurfing, land kiting or snowkiting in Tallinn, Surftown school is the right place.</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5zopddJNcOk"></iframe></p> <p></p> <p><strong>If you liked this article and found it helpful, please follow us on social media below and get more travel tips first. If you have questions or if you would like to share your experience about the visit to Surftown, just write a comment below.</strong><br /><br />For more information contact directly Surftown instructors:</p> <p><a href="https://surftown.ee/homepage/" target="_blank" class="btn btn-default">Surftown Website</a></p> Inga S. Estonia Blog, Activities, Stand-Up Paddleboarding, Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing May 8, 2017 Tallinn TV Tower https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/14-tallinn-tv-tower <p>TV Tower was one of a must objects to visit in Tallinn. We have pretty similar TV Tower in Vilnius and were very curious to visit Tallinn's tower and to compare them.</p> <p><strong>Travel to tower</strong></p> <p>Initially, we planned to go by bus (34A or 38 from old town), but the same day when it was sunny, we already had the preplanned trip with bicycles. As a result, we decided to go to Tower with bicycles. More about this tour you can read our article about <a href="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/13-cycling-in-tallinn" target="_blank">cycling in Tallinn</a>.</p> <p><strong>Initial impression</strong></p> <p>From inside and outside TV Tower looks modern and has enough spots to see and to do. Very helpful and professional staff introduced us with every attraction they have in the tower.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/FotoJet%20Collage11.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1080" /></p> <p><strong>TV studio</strong></p> <p>On the first floor, there is an amazing place, like a real studio where any visitor can become a television news speaker and broadcast their speech using social media. That is a great and exciting activity (especially for kids).</p> <p><strong>Exhibition and 3D</strong></p> <p>On the second floor, we found an interactive display and funny 3D movie about TV Tower, Tallinn, and Estonia.</p> <p><strong>Elevation</strong></p> <p>With elevator, it is possible to lift very fast to 170 m height and to enjoy the panoramic view. On the 21st floor of the Tower, we found quite terrifying glass floor. They are safe enough, and it is no problem to walk on them, but anyway it is quite threatening.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/FotoJet%20Collage12.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1080" /></p> <p><strong>21st floor and walk on the edge of TV Tower</strong></p> <p>On the 21st floor, it is possible to walk and observe Tallinn 360 degree from inside and outside. We liked the view from inside but to feel the wind, it is much more attractive. There are two possibilities for observation outside. The first option is to go outside ant to observe Tallinn like from the balcony without glass and the second option was extreme. We took the opportunity to walk on the edge of TV Tower (it is not free). An instructor from TV Tower put the safety belts on us, and we were tied to tower constructions every single second, so this attraction is fully safe. Anyway, just to know that you are safe is not enough to feel 100 percent safe in 170 m height but this is the idea of attraction - to get some adrenaline. It was exciting to sit on the edge of the tower and observe Tallinn. Our kids couldn't walk on the side because this entertainment is available from 12 or 13 years (check in TV Tower website to define).</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/FotoJet%20Collage10.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1080" /></p> <p><strong>Robot mushrooms</strong></p> <p>In the same 21st floor there is an interactive exhibition (staff calls it robot mushrooms), and here it is possible to find a lot of interesting facts about Estonia.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/FotoJet%20Collage5.jpg" alt="" width="1440" height="810" /></p> <p><strong>Stairs</strong></p> <p>TV Tower has stairs, and according to Tower team every year they organize the running event by stairs. Because we arrived about 10 km from old town by bicycles, probably we would not accept this kind of challenge on the same day :)<br />After an approximately couple of hours, we went outside the tower. Outdoor is perfect for children, and they could experiment a different kind of activities.</p> <p><br /><strong>My family travel zone tips</strong></p> <ul><li>To get full pack, plan trip during sunny day;</li> <li>Have at least a couple of hour if you want to see, read and try everything;</li> <li>During our stay in TV Tower, the restaurant didn't work, so take some snacks for children if the restaurant will be still on reconstruction.</li> </ul><p>We think that this is a great example how it is possible to arrange TV Tower to make it enjoyable. Our family highly recommends to visit it and to enjoy an excellent view and exciting attractions.</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/O8UXKK3-ei4"></iframe><br /><br /><strong>If you liked this article and found it helpful, please follow us on social media below and get more travel tips first. If you have questions or if you would like to share your experience about the visit to TV Tower, just write a comment below.</strong></p> <p><strong>TV Tower Contact Information:</strong><br />Kloostrimetsa tee 58 A, 11913 Tallinn<br /><a href="http://www.teletorn.ee/en/" target="_blank" class="btn btn-default">TV Tower Website</a></p> Inga S. Estonia Blog May 4, 2017 Cycling in Tallinn https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/13-cycling-in-tallinn <p>The first day in Tallinn we did a walking tour and enjoyed the beautiful old town. Next day we decided to expand radius and decided to take a trip with bicycles. We did some research and identified that just about 300 m from our apartments in the old town located bike rental company - City Bike.</p> <p><br />Before we arrived, we didn't know what kind of bikes we should choose, but City Bike Staff was very friendly and supportive and helped to choose the most suitable option for our family. City bike offered a couple of options to travel with small kids. The first possibility was to use a children seat in the back. The second choice was to select regular bicycles with trailers. The last-mentioned option designed for short distances and probably are not suitable for long distances. Our intent was to cycle around 20 km and accordingly we decided to select the 1st option.</p> <p><br />City bike offers guided tours (if this case you don't have to worry about preparation). But our intent was to visit TV Tower and to explore the city because we always learn a lot during the planning and it is a part of travel. City bike recommended cycling routes in Tallinn and instructed how to reach TV Tower. To make things easier and to find our track we marked down few landmarks using mobile phone GPS.<br />It was already the second part of April although the weather wasn't very warm (temperature was about 5 – 7 degrees above zero). We knew that and prepared accordingly (took extra clothes).</p> <p><br />We started our trip with bikes from old town streets of Tallinn, went to the coastline and reached TV Tower. We did few stops to rests and to become familiar with Tallinn and its people. The first shortstop was in the harbor to watch the ships. After 10 minutes we arrived at Kadriorg Park which is a perfect location for walking and cycling. There you can find museums and president palace.<br />The second point of interest was coastline. The coastline is an excellent location for running, roller-skating and cycling (check this in the movie below).</p> <p><br />We cycled 22 - 24 km, and the end of cycling we were tired but satisfied that we did it.<br /><strong></strong></p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/PicMonkey%20Image11.jpg" alt="" width="1702" height="597" /></p> <p><strong>My family recommendations/travel with bike tips</strong></p> <p></p> <ul><li>Take water and some snacks for you and your family;</li> <li>Take enough clothes for your kids if outside it is not warm enough. Most of the time they will have to sit on the seat without a lot of movement;</li> <li>Do not wear too many clothes if you are going for a long trip because you will be wet. It would probably be ideal to wear some special clothes for cyclists (but for a family bike tour it is possible to survive without them);</li> <li>Take waterproof clothes if suddenly will start to rain;</li> <li>Upload maps in your mobile phone navigation or GPS device and use holder to mount GPS device on handlebars;</li> <li>Deposit - 100 euros;</li> <li>If you don't want to cycle alone just join a bike tour with City Bike guide and they will help you to learn more about the city and to see interesting places.</li> </ul><p>Our family had an outstanding and productive time for almost the whole day. We highly recommend this entertainment during the stay in Tallinn because it is much faster to see much more within the same time like walking and it is active and healthy. We assume that we showed that kids are not the reason not to do travel with bikes!</p> <p><iframe width="425" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3-Kfu5JWALE"></iframe></p> <p><strong>If you liked this article and found it helpful, please follow us on social media below and get more travel tips first. If you have questions or if you would like to share your experience about cycling in Tallinn write a comment below.<br /></strong></p> <p><strong>City bike contact information:</strong><br />Address: Vene 33, Tallinn 10123, Estonia<br /><a href="http://www.citybike.ee/" class="btn btn-default">city bike Website</a></p> Inga S. Estonia Blog, Bicycle trails, Activities April 29, 2017 Dublin Old town https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/12-dublin-old-town <p>Dublin has plenty of free sightseeing objects in its old town. This time we made a plan to see O’Connell Street, Ha'penny Bridge, Dublin castle, City hall and Chris Church Cathedral.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/Dublin-walk-in-oldtown.png" alt="Dublin old town walk" width="1080" height="582" /></p> <p>O’Connell is a beautiful avenue to walk around and explore. It has a lot of shops, pubs, and restaurants, and provides access to the Temple Bar area and other main attractions of Dublin. Since 1924 street renamed in honor of Daniel O'Connell, a nationalist leader of the early 19th century, whose statue stands at the lower end of the road, facing O'Connell Bridge.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_9974.jpg" alt="Oconnell street" width="800" height="1089" /></p> <p>The Ha'penny Bridge is a bridge for pedestrians, which built in 1816, and it is an excellent place to start your day touring around the old town of Dublin.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/hapenny-bridge.jpg" alt="Bridge Dublin" width="1920" height="700" /></p> <p>City hall is an excellent opportunity to understand Dublin history. Entry is for free.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_0049.png" alt="Dublin history" width="1920" height="1280" /></p> <p>Chris Church Cathedral</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_0040.png" alt="Chris church cathedral" width="1920" height="1280" /></p> <p>Temple bar is an excellent area in Dublin with lots of pubs and places to eat.</p> <p><img src="https://myfamilytravelzone.com/img/cms/IMG_0110.png" alt="Temple bar" width="1920" height="1457" /></p> My Family Travel Zone Ireland Blog April 14, 2017 Riga Chocolate Museum https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/10-riga-chocolate-museum <p>The museum is a nice place to spend with family for maximum up to one hour. You can hear some interesting facts about chocolate, test chocolate, and create chocolate with special note “I love (your text)”.</p> <p>However, we expected something different. In fact, we thought that it will be live presentation about chocolate production, however, some movies were shown instead. Well, I am sure I could find a lot of information online.</p> <p>The next thing is price. For my family (2 adults and 2 kids (4 and 6 years old)) it costed € 17. The same price was paid Riga Zoo which was significantly more attractive and interesting. The most exciting thing for children was the possibility to get a candy.</p> <p>My family recommends visiting Chocolate Museum as the second priority and, probably, not for budget travel!</p> Inga S. Latvia Blog March 23, 2017 Riga Zoo https://myfamilytravelzone.com/blog/9-riga-zoo <p>It is quite easy to find Riga Zoo. From the city center, it is possible to travel by tram (number 11) which goes quite often. How to know that it is time to get out? It will be Mezapark stop (you will see the entrance to Zoo on the left). If you miss it, do not worry because the last tram station is 300 m awayJ</p> <p>Adult ticket costs € 6, but we, as the family of 4 members, bought family ticket for € 17. At the same time, we received the Zoo plan which is easy to understand and is helpful to find whatever you want in the Zoo.</p> <p>This place was probably the most attractive object for all members of our family. There are a lot of wild animals in Riga Zoo. Some of them were outside and some inside. It was comfortable because we visited the zoo in February, and the temperature outside was about 0, so while being inside, we had a perfect chance to get warm.</p> <p>We visited Zoo at the end of February and liked it. The total duration of this trip was almost 3 hours, but it was long neither for adults nor the youngest visitor (4 years).</p> <p>My family recommends visiting Riga Zoo (high priority)!</p> <p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/jEhcpEMd9Gc" frameborder="0"></iframe></p> Inga S. Latvia Blog, Zoos & Aquariums March 14, 2017