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Episode 37 – New York City

Episode 37 – New York City

Colleen & Catie’s Picks for New York City

Colleen
Best/worst times to travel to NYC?
Best: The winter months (Jan – March) and late summer (July – August) are the least busy times and cheaper times to visit.
Worst: The time between Thanksgiving and New Years Eve
What airport does Colleen recommend?
LaGuardia – To get from LaGuardia to your hotel, for $2.75 you can take Bus Q70 Limited to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave Subway Station, then another $2.75 to take the subway from there (about 2 hours). There’s also shuttle services offered starting at $19.
Accommodations:
The Moxy NYC Times Square – Prime location to plenty of shopping, food, attractions. It’s also a decent price, starting around $130 per room.
Restaurant: The Moxy – Great breakfast and free coupons!
Tips for Getting Around:
Take the subway or local bus for $2.75. For traveling to NYC, we recommend: 7-Day Unlimited Pass for $32.00. Good for unlimited subway and local bus rides until midnight, 7 days from day of first use. It can also be refilled if you want to extend your stay.
Money saving tip:
Take in the view with a drink rather than paying for a pricey ticket up to the viewing platforms. Since a lot of famous buildings also have bars, it’ll be cheaper to buy a drink at one than pay for a ticket.

Catie
Best time to book flights for a trip to NYC?
Flights booked in January and February are estimated to be the cheapest in 2019 (14% off the average ticket price for the year). Avoid booking in June, where prices seem to be the highest compared to the other months. It’s also best to book your flight one month in advance.
Accommodations:
The Lotte New York Palace – Located in Midtown Manhattan, also features suites, a spa and a beautiful location, complete with a courtyard.
Restaurant: Old Tbilisi – Georgian Restaurant in Greenwich Village
Tips for Getting to and from the Airports:
The AirTrain – Only $8 for JFK to Manhattan, or $13 for Newark into Penn station. Remember that taking cabs from the airports into New York do involve pricey tolls!
Tips for Traveling to NYC?
Don’t stay in Times Square or Rockefeller Center if you can help it. Go see them and take photos, but don’t stay there.
Explore other parts of New York City – Check out Lower Manhattan and take a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge or head to the Bronx or Queens to see a baseball game. Shop and do lunch in Soho!

“What’s” with the “Trip Sisters”

What’s in Your Suitcase?
AirPods – Apple Wireless Headphones
$159 – www.Apple.com
AirPods simply connect with your iPhone and Apple Watch, offer up to 5 hours of listening time with one charge, and even detect when AirPods are in your ear, so they only play when you are ready to listen. Great for traveling or on long plane rides!

What’s on your phone?
NYC Ferry Service App by Hornblower
Free on Android and iPhone – Allows you to buy tickets, view ticketing information, ferry schedules, and explore route options in NYC.
Time Out – New York
Free on Android or iPhone – Trip planner app that you can use for any major city you’re visiting to help you find places to visit in customised locations, and plan your trip around the best events and activities.

What’s the tip?
Saving money in NYC
• Check the NYC attractions to see if it is required to print tickets if you pre-book online.
• Check the websites of museums you plan to visit and see whether they offer any free or reduced-price admission days.
• Join free walking tours of New York led by locals. The two most well known are Big Apple Greeters and Free Tours by Foot. Be sure to book your spot in advance.
• Skip the touristy (and pricey) harbor cruises and take the Staten Island Ferry instead for fantastic views of New York Harbor. The free ferry runs between Whitehall and Staten Island.
• The Downtown Boathouse offers free 20-minute kayaking tours on the Hudson on the weekends (May – Oct)

Episode 36 – Family Getaways

Colleen & Catie’s Picks for Family Getaways

Colleen
Destination: Saint Charles, Illinois – Nice downtown and riverwalk, plenty of restaurants and shopping. For entertainment, the Arcada Theater offers regular concerts and events.
Accommodations: Pheasant Run Resort – www.pheasantrun.com – Wonderful, family-friendly resort, located on 250 acres in Saint Charles.
Meal/Restaurant: Harvest Restaurant at Pheasant Run – https://www.pheasantrun.com/dining/harvest.aspx – Offering delicious steaks, farm-to-table, and gluten-free options.
Activities: Pheasant Run
• For Kids: Escape Room
• For Parents: Spa, Zanies Comedy Club
• Both: Pool, heated outdoor pool, hot tub, Mainstage Theater
Family Travel Tip: Pheasant Run offers free parking, vs. expensive downtown Chicago parking costs. It’s great for families in the winter because you don’t have to leave to have fun.

Catie
Destination: Clearwater, Florida
Accommodations: Sand Pearl on the beach
Meal/Restaurant: Bon Appetit Restaurant and Bar in Dunedin
Activity: Clearwater Marine Aquarium with the Dolphins and finding seashells on the beach
Family Travel Tip: Fly to Tampa its much cheaper and only 30 min from Clearwater.

“What’s” with the “Trip Sisters”

What’s in Your Suitcase?
Wellslock containers – 22 Piece set is $29.99 on www.wellslock.com
Wellslock storage containers have a lock-on lid for no spills. They are aksi freezer, fridge, microwave and dishwasher safe, BPA free and odor and stain resistant.

What’s on your phone?
Yuggler – $.99 – iOS/Android
Search nearby for family-friendly activities, events and attractions for every budget (including free!).

What’s the tip?
Tips for Navigating Airports with Kids (From Travel Channel)
1: In the days leading up to your trip, sit in the rear seat with your child as your partner drives around town during your family outings. This allows you to talk to your child about what it will be like on the airplane.
2: Have your child pick out a small backpack that fits them well gives them a sense of trip buy-in and importance. Help them fill it with things they like and need, like a water bottle or a small flashlight, or even a glowstick in case they are in the dark on the plane and need to feel safe.
3: Make a note of what your kids are wearing before arriving at the airport, and consider even taking a photo of them. Bold color schemes can help parents quickly locate their kids in the event they wander off.
4: Never pass up a restroom – When boarding or choosing your seats online, consider getting a seat close to the restrooms. If you have children in diapers, check beforehand to see which bathrooms have changing tables (they’re usually located in the front of the plane).
5: Carry ample cleaning wipes and hand sanitizer. Also carry children’s’ pain medication and ear drops in case air pressure becomes an issue. Another trick for dealing with air pressure pain: Ask the flight attendant for two cups filled with napkins or towels soaked in hot water and drained, then place the cups over your child’s ears. As the heat cools it creates a slight vacuum that helps equalize ear pressure.
6: Try a foldable garden or sports wagon instead of a stroller. These wagons stow secure and flat, and gate-checking them shouldn’t be a problem.
7: Use travel to introduce new responsibilities to your kids. Print two copies of their boarding passes, and give them a set to keep track of (keep the other handy just in case). Have them pack their small backpack with their things (with oversight) the day before the trip, and keep in mind any security restrictions (anything resembling a weapon, liquids, gels, etc.).
8: It should go without saying, but video devices should have earphones. Have two kids watching the same show? Get a headphone splitter so that they (or you) can both listen.
9: If you are traveling with children that have a different last name than yours, make sure to check well ahead of time for any supporting documentation you may need for domestic and international flights, such as copies of birth certificates (having a copy of your kid’s birth certificates is always a good idea when flying).
10: When going through security, children will never be separated from parents, but the quick procedure can still be unnerving. Prepare your child before arriving at the airport by explaining what will happen.
11: While liquids and gels in excess of 3.4 ounces per container are not permitted to pass through TSA security, an exception is made for baby formula, breast milk and ice packs when traveling with an infant. Notify a TSA agent that you’re carrying larger quantities of liquids, and have them easily accessible.
12: Many airports have play areas where kids can burn off energy, such as Chicago’s O’Hare and DFW. Take advantage of this time to get some of your child’s energy out before the flight.

Episode 35 – Galentine’s Day

Special Guest: Samantha Brown
World Traveler/Host of “Places to See” on PBS

Home

Colleen & Catie’s Picks for Galentine’s Day/Valentine’s Day

Colleen
Galentine’s Day:
● City: Tahoe – California/Nevada
● Accommodations: Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe
● Restaurant: Lone Eagle Grill
● Activity: Casino, Spa, or Skiing
Valentine’s Day
● City: Chicago
● Accommodations: InterContinental Chicago: Magnificent Mile. Be sure to check out their “The Snuggle is Real” package, available through the end of March 2019! – https://www.icchicagohotel.com/
● Restaurant: Michael Jordan’s Steak House at InterContinental Chicago
● Activity: Exploring the city, swimming in the InterContinental’s indoor pool, relaxing with the family!

Catie
Galentine’s Day:
● City: Chicago
● Accommodations: The Gwen
● Restaurant: Gibsons Italia and Z bar for drinks at Peninsula
● Activity: Vavoom Pinups
Valentine’s Day
● City: Chicago
● Accommodations: Waldorf Astoria
● Restaurant: Chicago Cut
● Activity: Spa day at Waldorf or Ancient spas

“What’s” with the “Trip Sisters”

What’s in Your Suitcase?
Ashley Chloe – LUX True Wireless Headphones
$99.99 on www.ashleychloe.com
Rechargeable, compact wireless headphones designed with a female fit for womens’ ears.

What’s on your phone?
Bumble BFF – Free, available on iOS or Android
Similarly to a dating app, this app allows women look for women friends in the same way they’d find a date.

What’s the tip?
Valentine’s Day Travel Tips – Skyscanner.com
For Couples
1. Your Valentine’s Day Getaway does not have to be on Valentine’s Day – It will be cheaper to travel on another date in February, and gives you a little extra something to look forward to.
2. If your mind is set to travel on Valentine’s Day, consider visiting an off season getaway. This lets you take advantage of discounts, and alone time together.
3. Choose a destination you have always wanted to visit
4. Go on a romantic cruise – Cruises and romance are a perfect combination.
5. Surprise her in a not-so-surprising way – Clichés are always true, or in this case, effective. Set up a romantic dinner; give your partner the usual chocolates and flowers.
6. Enjoy each other, just each other – Go someplace where you can be alone and enjoy each other’s company.
For Singles
1. Take advantage of your freedom – Explore places on your own; because once you find your soulmate, you might miss these times when you enjoy yourself.
2. Conquer the world – Escape for awhile and go to your dream destination, solo.
3. Travel with friends – You’re single, but you don’t have to travel alone. Especially great if you have single friends too.
4. Go on a singles cruise – This gives you an opportunity to explore the singles population in search for a date.
5. Go on a food tour – Great way to enjoy some good food and meet new people. Go alone or with friends, either way you won’t feel out of place.

Episode 34 – Ski Getaways

Colleen & Catie’s Picks for Ski Getaways

Colleen – Wilmot Resort, Wisconsin and Keystone Resort, Colorado
Destination/Resort:
• Wisconsin – Wilmot Resort – www.wilmotmountain.com www.vailresorts.com
o Offer lessons, have a variety of slopes, etc.
o About an an hour and a half from Chicago
• Colorado – Keystone Resort – www.keystoneresort.com
o Fly into Denver, rent a car and drive 2 hours (about 90 miles) to Keystone
o FREE in-resort transportation system
o Bus stops are located just a short walk from Keystone
Tip for Skiing/Planning a Ski Getaway?
• Bring everything (in terms of ski clothes, etc.) you can from home! Options for shopping are limited in these towns and can be super costly.
Accommodations:
• The Inn of Geneva National at Geneva National Resort in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin – www.genevanationalresort.com/inns – Great for large groups!
• The Ridge Hotel & Resort in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin – www.ridgelakegeneva.com – Also within 25 minutes of Wilmot resort
• Keystone Resort, Colorado
Restaurant:
• Walt’s Tavern at Wilmot Resort for lunch
• Hunt Club Steakhouse at Geneva National in Lake Geneva – www.huntclubsteakhouse.com – For the ultimate steak dinner!
Best time to ski here? How far in advance to book?
• Wilmot and Keystone make their own snow so anytime between November to end of March is usually a good time.
Money-saving tip:
• The Inns at Geneva National provide a kitchen and an outdoor grill, so for families or large groups this is a big money saving tip!

Catie – Steamboat Ski Resort, Colorado
Destination/Resort:
• Colorado – Steamboat Ski Resort
o Steamboat Springs is located right near the Hayden Airport, and between 3 and 4 hours from Denver International Airport (DEN).
o Shuttle services available from Hayden Airport
o Strawberry Park Hot Springs is a must stop. They have hot springs and massages. Great place to relax after days of skiing. Located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
Tip for Skiing/Planning a Ski Getaway?
• Book ski in and ski out ideally (Meaning you might have to walk to the chairlift to access the slopes, but then you can ski back to your hotel or condo).
• If you can’t do ski in ski out, make sure you are on a bus line
Accommodations:
• Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas are located at the base of the mountain and super easy to get in and out ski wise.
• Cimarron Townhomes is where we stayed. Close to resort and we could walk to the grocery store too! Cimarron consists of five-bedroom units with a loft and den.
Restaurant:
• Winona’s- A homey restaurant with all-American fare, open every day. They also offer a delicious Reese’s Peanut Butter pie with Oreo cookie crumb crust.
Best time to ski here? How far in advance to book?
• March is great skiing but it’s crowded. We booked ours in January.
Money-saving tip:
• Don’t ski! Look for groupons or deals. It’s expensive. Eat in….we did that alot and saved money.

Guest:
• Rachael Muhlenbeck – Marketing & PR Manager – Wilmot Mountain
www.wilmotmountain.com www.vailresorts.com

“What’s” with the “Trip Sisters”

What’s in Your Suitcase?
Mr. Steak Infrared Portable Grill – Available online and in-store at Bass Pro Shops – https://mrsteak.com/
• $229.99 for Mr. Steak 1-Burner Infrared Portable Grill
• $329.99 for Mr. Steak 2-Burner Infrared Portable Grill
Portable grill with infrared energy so food is cooked over 50% faster, for juicier, more tender meat.

NFL, light-up Bluetooth Ugly Christmas Sweater by Forever Collectibles
• $89.99 at www.foco.com
Compatible with both Android and Apple devices, this NFL sweater of your favorite team lights up and plays music right from your phone!

What’s on your phone?
Ski Tracks App – Available on Android and iOS: $0.99
Ski Tracks is a tracking and logging app that uses your phone’s GPS and other sensors to record your ski sessions, including maximum and average speed, total distance traveled and slope angle.

What’s the tip?
What to do if you get caught in an avalanche – From Travel + Leisure
1. Move to the Side – Once you see an avalanche heading your way, do not try to outrun it. The Clymb recommends immediately running perpendicular to its path to avoid getting caught up in the middle of it.
2. Grab Something Sturdy – If you find yourself in the path of one of an avalanche, try to grab onto a tree branch or sturdy rock to keep you steady and rooted to one spot.
3. Swim – To prevent getting buried under mounds of snow and debris, you’ll want to stay on top of the avalanche, swimming through the snow to stay on the surface, if possible.
4. Hold One Arm Up – You should also try to reach one arm up so that, if you do get buried, you can give your rescue team a literal hand in helping find you.
5. Create Room to Breathe – Most avalanche-related fatalities are caused by asphyxiation. If you’re caught in an avalanche, take your hands and cup them over your mouth while you’re still moving. This will create a small pocket of air for you to survive on for up to 30 minutes. You can also try to dig some space around your face to create breathing room.
6. Stay Calm – You might understandably have the urge to panic, but it’s of the utmost importance that you don’t. If you panic, your breath will quicken and you’ll fill what little space you have with too much carbon dioxide, thereby shortening that 30-minute survival window. Try to breathe as steadily as you can so the rescue team has as much time as possible to come find you.
7. Prepare ahead of time – The best thing you can do to survive an avalanche is to take certain precautions before you venture out into the snow. Check not just the weather forecast, but the local Avalanche Information Center website as well. Beware of blue-sky syndrome – People see blue skies and think it’s great weather go ski or snowboard. However, if a storm that just blew through, chances are fresh avalanches that are sitting there, waiting for a trigger. Do not forget to bring an avalanche beacon with you. These beacons work like radios: they transmit frequencies and can alert other beacon carriers to your exact location. Having a beacon could make all the difference between life and death as you wait for rescue.

Episode 31 – Live Broadcast at Travel & Adventure Show

Attend Travel & Adventure Show Chicago / January 12 – 13, 2019 to explore destinations from all over the world and enter for your chance to win some amazing giveaways, like an MSC Cruise!

Go to https://travelshows.com/shows/chicago/ for more information.

Use the Promo Code TRIPSIS or go to the link below for $5 off admission! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2019-chicago-travel-adventure-show-tickets-50284486252?discount=TRIPSIS

Be sure to follow us on social at @TheTripSisters and if you’re visiting the Travel & Adventure Show, share your experiences with us using the hashtags #ChicagoTravelShow and #TripSistersRadio