Travel Tuesday: San Antonio

I LOVE to travel, and my husband and I take a trip each year for our anniversary. Last year, it was delayed until December . . . and we traveled to San Antonio.

Of course, the top place to see in San Antonio has to be The Alamo. 

We had a fantastic time, but as you can see it was raining, so we did not spend much time in the park surrounding The Alamo. 

You also have to check out the restaurants in San Antonio! We went to Biga on the Banks, which had the perfect ambience for a romantic dinner. The food was mouthwatering delicious, and the service was AMAZING!!! 

A fun place to stop is SeaWorld. There is not as much happening in the winter, but there is still plenty to see and do when you visit, and there isn't a crowd since it is not the prime season to go! We still had a blast! 

The RiverWalk Boat tour will give you a great view of the city on the Riverwalk. I recommend walking around as well. In December, the Riverwalk is a beautiful site all lit up! 

We also took a trolley tour that took us all around San Antonio. I highly recommend it, as it provided a huge amount of history! 

If you have never visited a Texas de Brazil Brazilian Steakhouse, make sure to check it out. They have "wine angels," which are acrobats who do stunts in the wine room (while retrieving wine). A very neat experience! 

Things I wish I would have known:

1. It is cold and rainy in San Antonio in December. Bring an umbrella and a winter coat.

2. This is a place to rent a car. The cab service was HORRIBLE. 

3. Do not plan your trip during a major sporting event. We were there during a major college game and everything was CRAZY! 

4. Bring comfortable shoes. You will be walking a lot. 

Travel Tuesday: Grenada

July 2016 marked my 14th wedding anniversary. My husband and I try to take a trip during our anniversary month WITHOUT the kids. I usually need a break after being home alone with them all summer, he needs a break, and it is a nice time to get away.
We hadn't really planned to go to Grenada. We had some good experience with Sandal's and they were having a sale, so I thought-- why not. We ended up going to Grenada because it was one of the only places we could fly without a red-eye flight (which I hate).


It was stunningly beautiful! Just amazing. This was our view from the hotel room. There was an ocean AND mountain/ hill view.
 

The beach was well maintained, clean, and you could do many activities right from the resort.


We ended up snorkeling one day, sitting by the beach a ton, and just relaxing. They had many, many options though!
 

And Sandal's went the extra mile when it came to finding ways to surprise us. From a candlelight dinner on our balcony to welcome us when we arrived to a bubble bath complete prepared with flowers and candlelight when we returned from our massages!



Things were really wonderful, but I do have a few tips of things to know if you ever visit:

1. Book a butler suite. This really made our stay at Sandal's MUCH, MUCH better! However, not ALL of the butlers are stellar. We had one who was fantastic. The other two were just ok.

2. If you get the candlelight dinner (which is an added option-- one you pay for) DO NOT choose the beach location. It has TONS of bugs. TONS! And you WILL get bit. A LOT. And there is Zika virus in Grenada. We had the unfortunate experience, and would not want to do it again.

3. Bring a snorkel with you. You can take a boat out snorkeling (which I highly recommend-- tons of fun), but you can also snorkel right from the beach-- tons of fish! But to snorkel on the beach, you have to purchase the snorkels there which were crazy expensive.

4. DO NOT. I repeat DO NOT purchase your next Sandal's vacation from the resort while you are there. They will tell you it is the BEST deal. IT. IS. NOT. The gentleman in the booking area tried to tell me I would not find a better deal. The BEST deal is always to book during your stay. But my trip THERE was cheaper than what he was offering. He tried to claim it was because we had cheaper flights, which I showed him we did not. He could not offer the same deal/ discounts that we got during our trip there. Wait for Sandal's to have a super deal online and book then.

5. AVOID the French restaurant. It was not good. The service was slow and the food was not great. Lots of others places to choose from that are far better!

Top 5 Places . . . Jamaica

As many of you know, I hopped on a plane last week and flew to Jamaica. This is my second time visiting Jamaica this year (this time was for a wedding), and I have experienced tons of what this country has to offer. I have not visited EVERY place, but these are the things I have completely fallen in love with.

1. Glistening Waters Luminous Lagoon: This is truly one of the most amazing places I have ever visited in my life. It was magical. Unfortunately, none of my photos turned out because it is DARK and you cannot use a flash. I never would have even KNOWN about this place, but the last time I was in Jamaica, our tour guide actually recommended it. It was not on our lists of possible tours and our driver was NOT happy that he had to go out there. It was a long drive from our hotel in Negril but SO worth it. Because of microscopic organisms, the water GLOWS anywhere you touch it (hence why you need to go late at night). When you swim in it, it is like your entire body is covered in glitter. MAKE SURE to wear your suit so you do NOT miss out on swimming in the water. Splash the water tons and it is AMAZING!!! 
   
   
2. Dolphin Cove, Ocho Rios: Ok, to be really honest, I did NOT think I would have a good time at Dolphin Cove. First, it was CRAZY expensive. It was $200 for the ultimate swim. And if you spend the money, make SURE you do the ultimate swim because the other experiences were just not worth it. Second, swim with dolphins?? I know this is on a ton of people's bucket lists, but it was just not something I really WANTED to do (and I could do many more things for $200!). Last, I was a little scared. My sister REALLY wanted to go, so we did. I am SOOOOO glad that I did it. It was truly the event of a lifetime. It was just an incredible experience to be so up close and personal with dolphins. We had a blast. There was a ton to do once you were there. We went kayaking in the clear bottom kayaks, we went snorkeling, and we even tried to swim with the stingrays, but we never did see a single stingray. 
   
3. YS Falls: There are many waterfalls to choose from in Jamaica. I preferred YS Falls for several reasons. First, their staff is super friendly, helpful, and just wonderful. They convinced me to jump off a waterfall. I did sprain my foot, but I would do it all over again if I had the chance! We had a complete blast and always felt safe. We also loved that it was never overcrowded. There were not a lot of people there so you could really enjoy your experience instead being overcrowded by a ton of other people. 
4. Appleton Estate Rum Tour: There are many reasons to enjoy the tour. You learn about Jamaican history, you learn about how they make rum . . . and you get to taste test rum. Really, this tour is about the end when you taste test rum. I am not a huge rum drinker, but my husband and I actually found that some of the flavored rums were DELICIOUS! I guess that is why you taste test them . . . because there is a whole store filled with rum to buy from too! You also get free sample bottles to bring home. 
5. Black River Crocodile Tour: So, your travel agent may tell you this is a great way to see crocodiles in the wild. To be honest, they all seemed pretty tame to me and like they were used to human interaction. What makes this tour worth it is the other wildlife and scenery. Ask your tour guide about the different birds (which were beautiful) and the plant life. Those were the selling points for me. There are also parts where the water is so clear that you can see down to the bottom and can see many of the fish that also share the river with the crocodiles. At the end of the tour, make sure you get your picture taken holding a real, live crocodile (it is a baby one with its mouth clamped shut-- but still a great photo opp)! 

10/6: Top 5 . . . Steam Thresher's Reunion

Each year, my family and I has a Labor Day tradition. When other people are pulling in their lake dock, barbecuing, or attending parades, my family and I head to the Steam Thresher's Reunion on Rollag, MN.

Rollag, MN is a VERY small town, and relatively unheard of. But each Labor Day, people from across the country travel to this location to celebrate all things . . . STEAM! From tractors to machines, trains to threshers, this is an event not to miss.

You will arrive in a demonstration sort of area where there are many buildings and other events to watch. But do not less this fool you (and make you think, WHERE did MamaBreak send us), the real gem of the festival is a train ride away. Hop aboard the train (my son, who LOVES trains wants to ride over and over again), and transport you and your family back in history-- to a time when things were much simpler.

When you step off the train, you will see a main street with "typical" old shops. Stop in them to find hand made items. Do not forget to stop in the cafeteria for some hand made ice cream!

The kids will love this mini-train that is set up. Rides are free!

Check out the blacksmith stand to see live demonstration of how blacksmiths work! Look at the strong muscles!

Hungry? Stop at the apple stand for delicious juice, apple cider, carmel apples, and more!

My kids' favorite is the corn husker when you can take the kernels off of corn. You can also take your corn (off the cob) and grind it down to make animal feed!

The end of our day is always spent at the carousel. A fun treat for the kids.

For adults, there are many demonstrations and activities . . . so it really is a family event. The entire family likes to enjoy all of the festivities! A perfect outdoor festival for the autumn weather!

Top 5 Places.....Peoria, Illinois!

Driving through Central Illinois on your way somewhere? Have a family member nearby!?  Checkout these top 5 in Peoria!



There is a lot going on at the Peoria River Front. I had my wedding reception at the lovely Gateway Building.  You can go on a cruise or hit up one of the events.  Checkout the link above to their calendar!

#2  The zoo is a really cool place to hang out, too! We love the Africa exhibit!  Its a super place for kiddos, too.

#3 The orchard outside of Peoria, but a good place for Fall fun!

They have animals, a store, apple picking, and seasonal activities!

#4 An AMAZING place to eat in Peoria is Jims Steakhouse This has been a family favorite for many, many years.  You pick your steak AND cook your own. The chefs help and assist and you get to participate in the culinary experience!

#5 Hit up a Chiefs baseball game!  They have an awesome new stadium and its a great time out with family or friends!  They also just announced that they will be hosting the St Louis Cardinals affiliation contract!  Go Cards!

Top 5 Places . . . Minneapolis!

Minneapolis is one of our favorite places to go as a family! There is so much to do, but often visitors do not know about these many, many places. The things you hear about in Minneapolis are the Mall of America . . . and the Mall of America. There is so much to see and do, and I cannot wait to share!

1. Mall of America: Let's get it out of the way and say you MUST go to the Mall of America-- and NOT for shopping. There are three attractions we LOVE about Mall of America

Sea Life: In the lower level of the Mall of America is an Aquarium. There are petting places, a moving walkway that moves you through the aquarium, and plenty of places to stop and play! It is a must see at the Mall!

 Have a Lego fan? You NEED to go to the Lego store! This is right off of the amusement park, so it does not require going into the mall itself. It is super FUN and has many places to build and play with Legos! 

Formerly Camp Snoopy, Nickelodeon Universe features great rides for all ages!  We do not always ride the rides, but we always CHECK THE SCHEDULE. You can often have a meet and greet with some of your favorite Nick characters! The last time we were there we got to meet the BackYardigans!

2. Wondering what ever became of Camp Snoopy? Well, if rides of all sizes is TRULY
what you are looking for, then you need to drive down the rode to Shakopee, MN! This amusement park has been a part of MN since 1976, and most people from the area will tell you it is a part of their lives (I know it is a part of mine!). My first visit was when I was just 3! There are rides for the smallest to the largest kids, and people of all thrill seeking adventures! This is an all day event, and is an amazing Amusement Park! It is a MUST SEE if you are in Minneapolis. 

3.  This amazing festivals runs during the weekends from August 18th- September 30th. It has food, games, and even rides (operated by hand, of course). There are a lot of shows and entertainment throughout the festival, and dressing up is an option (not required). Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and comfy shoes! Tons of funs for adults AND kids, there is something for everyone!

4. If you are in town during baseball season, then you need to see a Twins game! Live baseball is a family event! Don't forget to partake in baseball food while you are there! If you are in Minneapolis during the football season, then skip over to Wisconsin to catch a Packers game! Just joking Vikings fans! 

5. Want to see an argument similar to Vikings vs. Packers? Then ask anyone that lives near Minneapolis which zoo is the one you need to see! From the link and pictures, Minnesotans can clearly see which one I enjoy, but there are pros and cons to each. Como Zoo is free, smaller, and also has a carousel and other smaller rides. It is part of a park as well. We go to the Minnesota Zoo because it has more animals. Make sure you visit for the shark feedings, Scuba demonstration, Penguin feeding (my personal favorite), and ride the Monorail! There is a "family farm" open from Spring until Fall, and there is also a splash park in the summer (so bring suits for the kids!). 

So that is the list. The 5 things to do in Minneapolis. This is, of course, a list for Mamas-- and I obviously made it with kids in mind (because I am a mama!). Other places to consider:

• A lake-- Minnesota is known for them, but favorites in the Minneapolis area include Lake of the Isles and Lake Harriet
• Institute of Arts--Free and kid friendly
• Minnehaha Park-- if you are a park family (we are!) this is the one not to miss!

Top 5 in St. Louis!

Before my husband and I relocated to St. Louis nearly six years ago, we visited OFTEN.  It was one of the largest places near his hometown and our college town.  Plus, as a kid living in Illinois, only 2 1/2 hours away, we ALWAYS came to St. Louis to watch the Cardinals play.  I feel like a resident and tourist at the same time here.  I've done many tourist activities, but also found the sweet places to take young ones!  I'll share both, but the top 5 are for visitors and residents alike!

THE ARCH!

The Gateway Arch is an amazing structure.  If you are visiting the area, check it out!  You can go up in it and there are many events going on down near the Arch!  I just love this beautiful photo!

 LACLEDE'S LANDING

 Near the Arch and the convention centers is Laclede's Landing.  A SUPER great place for restaurants and an active night life!  Get a sitter!

CARDINALS BASEBALL GAME!

 Checkout a Cardinals Baseball game! Get the Coca Cola patio seats or some that include FREE food and drinks.  Its worth the bumped up ticket cost, I promise.  See us here, we've had ONE too many free BBQ sandwiches!  (Left to Right: Hubby/Jerret, ME/Steph, Ash, and Mike!)

 My sideways shot of the scoreboard.  Yup, too many sandwiches!

The zoo-it's FREE!

 Mama and E checking out the fish!  

The Zoo is HUGE and really, really awesome.  The Zoo itself is free, then there are a few activities you can pay for (train, hands-on area for little ones, and snacks!)  Either way, it can be an ALL day activity or just a stop in to your favorite animals day!  We love going!

Its fake, but he still didn't like it!

Hidden Jem:  

For me, the city museum is NOT for children under 5.  You should check it out online and maybe in person before you actually take your kiddos there.  Its comprised of recycled materials including the building itself! It was an old shoe factory.  The rooms, slides, compartments and holes you can climb around in are ENDLESS.  Want to feel like a kid again!? THIS PLACE is for you.  The photo above is of the outdoor activities.  This, too, is located near downtown.  SUPER close to many of the Top 5!

Top 5 Places . . . Paris!

I have done a lot of thinking about the 5 places I love most about Paris. It is a hard choice, because it is one of my favorite places on earth. Narrowing it down to 5 was hard, but I think I came up with my list.

1. La Teur D'Eiffel (The Eiffel Tower): I think this is an obvious choice, but it is also the complete truth for me. the Eiffel Tower holds such a special place in my heart. Every time I see it, it brings me to tears. When I was younger, I dreamed of going to Paris. When I finally made it there in my early 20s, it was the one place I absolutely needed to see first. It is what most reminds me of this city that I love so much.

While you are there: Stop at a crepe stand. My favorite is Crepes with Nutella. 

Mama Steph showing off Paris to hubby. She stayed in Paris and taught English as a Second Language for a school year!

2. Arc De Triomphe (The Arc of Triumph): This is also an icon of France, and a location many people think of when they think of Paris. The top of the Arc De Triomphe is my favorite view of Paris, especially at night. Take the walk up the long spiral staircase to build anticipation of this amazing view.

While you are there: Pay homage to those that have given their lives at the Eternal Flame and the tomb of the unknown soldier, directly below the Arc de Triomphe. 

3. Musee D'Orsay (Orsay Museum): This is one of my "controversial" picks. It really depends on the type of art you enjoy, to pick a favorite museum in Paris. If you like the romantic period (and older), choose The Louvre. If you enjoy modern art, The Pompidu is for you. If you love impressionism (which I do), then the Orsay is your place. These are generalizations to steer you to the right place. It does not mean that the museums ONLY carry that kind of art, because they ALL have a variety. But if you are looking for Van Gogh, Manet, Monet, Degas, Renoir-- then they are at the Orsay. If you are looking for Starry Night-- you are looking for Orsay. For me, it is the most moving museum I have ever been to. The works that I have seen in pictures, were there in person. I could spend an entire week just walking around the Orsay, but it can be easily enjoyed in a day or even a 1/2 day.

Recognize the red coat!?  This was a trip over the winter months.  TOTALLY worth it! Go ANYTIME to Paris!

While you are there: Take a walk on the Seine and grab a coffee. The museum is located right on the banks of this famous French river.

                                              Picture is Winged Victory at The Louvre 

4. Sacre Coeur (Sacred Heard Church): Another controversial pick, I am choosing it over Notre Dame. Although Notre Dame has the big "WOW" factor, it does not compare to the spiritual feel of Sacred Heart. I have felt connected to Sacre Coeur since my first visit, long before I became Catholic. There is something about it that moves my soul every time I visit. It is majestic in its beauty in a different way from Notre Dame-- a way that is closer to the heart. The walk to the top of the church is worth the breathtaking view of Paris.

STILL a happening place!  Sacre Coeur

While you are there: I am going to cheat a little and give you another location that is at the bottom of the grand stairs up to Sacre Coeur and to the right. You simply must go to Montmarte. This is a market of local artists selling their wares. Technically, I believe Sacre Coeur is a part of Montmare, but it will be hard to miss once you are there. Also, the ride the carousel at the base of the bridge and take in the "live" art of living statues often in this location. 

Mama Jo and cousin at Sacre Coeur

5. Pere Lachaise: This may seem like an odd choice, but when I brought my cousin it was on my list of places she must see. If it filled with the resting places of many people. some people visit it to see the grave of Jim Morrison. Others Chopin. I always visit the grave of Oscar Wilde-- they will tell you not to kiss his headstone, but I will leave that up to you, I am sure you can guess what I do!
While you are there: This is an arrondissement filled with many local shops. Pick up a baguette, meat, and cheese, to have a picnic for later. 

Picture is in front of the Louvre

So, those are my top five places. They are the places that I always make sure to visit any time I go to Paris.

Paris Catacombs: To experience Paris underground.
Trocadero: Some say this is the best view of Paris.
Notre Dame: It is truly a masterpiece.
Pompidou: A TON of fun and a great mix of modern art!
The Louvre: To see Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, Venus De Milo, and other famous works of art.
Pantheon: Resting place of many famous people including Victor Hugo.

 Les Invalides: Napoleon's Tomb and location of the Hotel D'Invalides
Opera: The original Paris Opera house-- simply stunning.
Luxembourg Garden: If I had my children with me, this would have made my top 5. It has puppet shows, beautiful scenery, and is what a Parisian park is all about.

By the Pantheon, in the 5th is an AWESOME truly Parisian underground Cabaret show!  MAKE RESERVATIONS in advance, even if its the day of!  This show will keep you entertained until ALL hours of the morning (First time I went, I saw the sun rise!)

Underground Cabaret Show!  They DANCE on your table!

 Les Invalides: Napoleon's Tomb and location of the Hotel D'Invalides
Opera: The original Paris Opera house-- simply stunning.
Luxembourg Garden: If I had my children with me, this would have made my top 5. It has puppet shows, beautiful scenery, and is what a Parisian park is all about.

Top 5 Places: New Orleans

A promised, we bring you another edition of 5 places not to miss. This week, due to current events, I wanted to bring you New Orleans. It has been on my mind with the flooding they are experiencing, and I wanted to share with you my love for this amazing city!

As always, these are OUR opinions. Someone else may have completely different parts of New Orleans that they love! I am a mom, and they most recent trip I took I was with my baby. I have also traveled their pregnant, and as a very young person. What this means is that you will not find bars and pubs (for the most part) on this list. Most of the places mentioned are kid friendly. If they are not kid-friendly, I will ALWAYS tell you!

1. Cafe Du Monde. Is anyone surprised that I would list a coffee shop as my #1 pick? If you have never experienced Cafe Du Monde before, you may look at the line and think, "No way." But trust me, the line is worth it. The coffee is AMAZING! They serve Cafe Au Lait a la French style coffee, and although I would not go as far to say that it is just like being in Paris, it is worth the wait in line! You also want to make sure you get FRESH Beignets! They are hot out of the oven, and are simply amazing!

2. St. Louis Cathedral. This church is both beautiful and historical. It is the oldest cathedral in all of North America, and it is simply stunning--inside and out. It sits in a convenient location to almost all of the other places you simply cannot miss!

3. Since you are at the church, take the short walk across the street to Jackson Square (technically the church is a part of Jackson Square). The park is lovely, peaceful, and a great place to connect with New Orleans. In that area you are also going to find many local artisans, musicians, and palm readers.

4. The French Quarter for FOOD! You do NOT want to miss New Orleans without some southern Creole food! The French Quarter offers TONS of different options. While you are there, take a walk down the famous Bourbon Street. I only do this during the day, but if you are looking for the party crowd, that is where you will find them at night! This is also the place to find live Jazz music! You may want to wander down Royal Street as well to look at all of the shops available

5. You are not far from the Gulf, and if you have never seen the Gulf, this is your chance. You can travel over the Lake Pontchartrain Bridge which boasts being the longest continuous bridge over water (in the Guinness Book of World Records). The views are amazing, and you will not regret making the trip down to the coast.

 Other places of mention:
Because of the age of my children I traveled and other circumstances there were some places I did not visit that I have heard rave reviews about. Included in those sites are:

• St. Louis Cemetery
• Haunted/ Ghost tours
• Gator tours
• City Park
• Garden District

Next week . . . we visit the "City of Lights."

Top 5 Places . . . Oahu

This is the first of many in a series about the top 5 places you need to visit when you go to a location. Mama Steph and I (Mama Jo) are both travelers and we have both been all over the country . . . and all over the world (although we both prefer Paris!).

We are going to bring you the top 5 places we like about a certain location. Please keep in mind that neither of us is a travel agent or a professional chef, restaurant critic, etc. We also both have children and all of those factors influence our responses. These are just the top 5 places of MamaBreak.

This week, we are focusing on Oahu. 

Mama Jo recently visited Oahu, and wanted to share the "not to miss" spots while she was there. Without further ado . . . the Top 5 Places in Oahu are: 

1. Hanauma Bay.

I chose Hanauma Bay because I have never experienced anything like it before. If you have never been snorkeling, this is the place for you. Live coral, thousands of fish, in a beautiful cove. It is simply beyond words amazing. We saw many, many schools of fish of different varieties. It makes it my #1 not to miss place!

Tips: You can rent your snorkeling gear there, but purchasing your own is a good idea if you plan to go snorkeling again. You should sign up on the list after the video, because you will most likely WANT to go back! I could not get the hang of the flippers on my feet, so I took them off. If you have the same experience, make sure you have water shoes you can wear instead!

 
2. The North Shore.
If you are a surfer, this is your paradise! If you love food and fresh markets, this is YOUR paradise. Drive along the North Shore and stop at small stands where people are selling their fresh fruits, vegetables, and even shrimp! In my opinion, this is the BEST eating in Oahu! The view is also amazing, and you can find many public beaches that are not overrun with tourists.

Tips: On your way to the North Shore, Take H2 through the island. Stop at the Dole Plantation, which is essentially a tourist trap, but is worth the stop for the BEST pineapple soft serve you will ever have! Also, bring plenty of cash to the North Shore, because many of the small stands only take cash.
 
3. Waimea Valley Audubon Center.
This is like a little hidden gem of a location. It has a tropical rain forest feel, and features plants and flowers from all over the world. It also features local (Hawaiian) plants and flowers. They have learning areas where they showcase different Hawaiian culture, and many places set up for you to experience by yourself. The best part is, at the end of the hike, is a beautiful waterfall that you can swim into.

Tips: There are three things you should bring on this excursion. First, bug spray (you may need it). You will also want good walking shoes. The walk is not extreme, but you will be on your feet for a while. Last, but not least, wear a suit under your clothes so you can swim. You will most likely not need a towel because the natural warmth of the Hawaiian air will dry you off in no time!
 
4. Pearl Harbor. If you are on Oahu, this is one place you simply cannot miss. I am not a hisotry buff, and generally do not enjoy historical types of monuments. However, I was overwhelmed with emotion with just being there. The Arizona Memorial is sutnning, the story is moving, and it is one place you will want to visit. There are several places to visit at Pearl Harbor, but the U.S.S. Arizona is probably the most popular.

Tips: If you do visit, be aware that you need to go to Pearl Harbor and purchase your tickets for a time that day. It is best to go in the early morning to have your choice of times. They open at 8 a.m. every day. You cannot being purses, backpacks, or bags into the monument areas, so be prepared with pockets!
 
5. Aloha Stadium Swap Meet.
Yep. I went to Oahu and visited the swap meet. It is hands down the best place for souvenirs. They have amazing local vendor food (think coconut with a straw in it), and they also feature a garage sale! Some items are hand-crafted with the artisans making them live on site. It is a neat experience, and a great way to bring Oahu home with you without breaking the bank!




(Sorry no picture of the swap meet!)

Tips: Walk around the entire swap meet first if you have the energy. That way you can see what is available before you purchase anything (and can find the best price). Bring WATER. You are going to be walking a lot and it will be hot! I also would bring an umbrella or parasol to stay out of the hot sun at least a little.

There are a few honorable mentions for Oahu as well.

• We went to Diamondhead, but did not see the view because of my asthma (acted up, did not have my inhaler with). I have heard it is a must see. 
• If you are in the physical shape to take a hike that is worth the walk, you MUST do Koko Head!
• If you are a Lost fan, Mokuleia Beach is what you are looking for (and a MUST in my book!). 
• Ka' Ena point is also supposed to be amazing! 
• We went to the Paradise Cove Luau, and we feel this is also a MUST see! 

So, that is our Oahu list. This is based on our limited vacation time in Oahu, so your experiences in Oahu may be completely different! That is the wonderful thing about traveling! You can visit the same place again and again and always have a new adventure!

Special thanks to our Hawaii family: Andrew, Caitlan, Holli, Joe, Collin, Chad, and Chelsea-- much love!