Category: Travel and Vacations

For most of us, vacations with our family are limited. It’s often difficult to find both the time and the money to organize a well deserved ‘break from it all.’ So, when we go away, we want to get it right.

However, with the average vacation costing $4,580, it’s understandable why you’d want to shop around to find a more affordable holiday.

With that in mind, a dude ranch vacation is ideal. It’s the perfect place to enjoy some uninterrupted family time – and isn’t as expensive as you might think.

Let’s dive into seven dude ranch vacations that are perfect if you want a fabulous vacation on a budget.

Dude Ranch Vacations – Where to Begin?

If you’ve done some research on dude ranch vacations, you’ll know that prices vary massively.

However, you have to understand lots of ranches offer all-inclusive holidays. Whereas, others expect you to pay extra for all the additional activities.

So, don’t be fooled into thinking you’re getting a great deal. Always check precisely what the total price includes.

You should also consider your ranches location. Some are pretty remote. This means you’ll have to spend more money both getting there and traveling around during your stay.

Finally, it’s imperative to find a ranch that offers either a discount or a package for families. This is usually a good indicator that the venue is set up for the kind of vacation you want, without breaking the bank.

With that in mind, here are a few of our specific recommendations.

1. Sundance Trail Ranch, Colorado

This dude ranch is both family-friendly and pet-friendly. Ideally situated, it’s only a two-hour drive from Denver.

During your stay, guests can try their hand at; horseback riding, hiking, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting.

Plus, it’s situated close to the beautiful Colorado Rocky Mountains. So, it’s perfect for nature lovers.

This accommodations ideal if you’re traveling with extended family or friends. It can sleep as many as 24 guests and has wheelchair access.

Most importantly, visitors won’t go hungry. Traditionally Western homemade meals are prepared and served to guests. These dishes always go down a treat!

2. Marble Mountain Ranch, California

The Klamath National Forest surrounds this gorgeous ranch, so there’s plenty of opportunities for guests to explore.

Beautifully situated, the breathtaking Trinity Alps and Russian Wilderness Areas are close by and are definitely worth a visit!

The nice thing about this ranch is that they offer the ‘saddle-paddle’ vacation package. This allows visitors to give both horseback riding a go, alongside; whitewater rafting, fishing, and shooting.

So, rest assured there won’t be any chance of getting bored!

3. New Haven Working Cattle and Guest Ranch, Wyoming

This is a genuine cattle ranch, ran by family – perfect if you’re hoping to have an authentic Western experience.

Located on the outskirts of the Black Hills of Wyoming and near the Devils Tower National Monument, there’s plenty of scenery to take in.

This accommodation can sleep a maximum of 8 travelers.

Vistors have the opportunity to participate in various activities including; moving cattle from pasture to pasture, round-ups, checking reservoirs, etc.

Plus, guest bedrooms are beautifully rustic and have their own bathroom.

4. Southern Cross Guest Ranch, Georgia

This family-owned ranch is also a horse farm – home to more than 200 horses!

This ranch is just one hours drive from Atlanta, and unlike other ranches, experienced riders are permitted to ride their horses unguided. You don’t have to be Noel Fehily to enjoy your ride here.

Plus, the foods said to be amazing – what’s not to love about that?

5. Rowse’s 1+1 Ranch, Nebraska

This is another working ranch, so it’s perfect if you want a taste of genuine Western culture.

Guests have the opportunity to participate in plenty of ranch activities including riding and cattle work.

By cattle work we mean; cattle drives, roundups, brandings, and roping.

6. Sugar and Spice Ranch, Texas

Unlike the other ranches, this one provides specific vacations for mothers and daughters.

Moms pay from $100 per night ($50 non-rider) and daughters $50. This is the perfect place for some mother-daughter bonding if you’re both horse-lovers or just up for trying something new.

You’ll be given your ‘own’ own horse and get to; feed, groom, tack up, clean the tack, and bath him/her- it really is the full horsey package!

The above rates include meals, riding, activities, lodging, tax and evening entertainment.

7. Sweet Grass Ranch, Montana

Finally, we come to the last of our dude ranch vacations.

This is another family-owned working cattle ranch, and it’s absolutely gorgeous.

This accommodation’s situated in the beautiful Crazy Mountains, so it’s perfect if you want to take a step back from the hustle and bustle of daily life and admire natures bounty.

There’s plenty of opportunities for guests to try their hand at riding. With thousands of acres of mountain country, meadows, and plains to explore, you’ll be spoiled for a choice of scenery.

The riding experience is ‘unstructured’ and tailored to what you’re interested in doing. This helps you get the most out of your ranch vacation.

The hosts offer various packages, starting from $225 a night. The all-inclusive riding package allows you to go on all-day rides either moving cattle or to explore the serene alpine lakes.

However, non-riding packages begin at $180 per night. If riding isn’t your thing, don’t worry there’s still plenty to do. Hiking, fishing, row-boating, and golf are all favorite pastimes.

Kids can stay for as little as $160 (including horseback riding and other horse activities). Your little ones are bound to enjoy the ranch’s natural water slide, and the quality time spent around the evening campfire.

Are You Interested in Other Ways to Save Money?

If you’ve enjoyed this piece on affordable dude ranch vacations, we’re sure you’ll love our other content.

We understand family life gets expensive. So our blogs committed to providing information on living a high-quality lifestyle for less.

We cover everything from thrifty DIY hacks to cooking on a budget we’re sure we’ll have a post on something you’re hoping to save money on.

If you have any questions or would like to reach out to us, please feel free to fill out our contact form. One of our friendly team members will get in touch as soon as they can.

Are you about to make your kid’s dreams come true with a trip to Disney World?

Disney World is a place your child will always remember. It is deemed the “most magical place on earth”, and we know you want your child’s trip to be memorable.

Since Disney World is such a big place, it can be difficult to sift through it all and pick the best attractions and restaurants to go to.

This article will give you valuable Disney World tips so you’re family will have the vacation of a lifetime.

1) Dress Your Cutie Up

Disney is a place for dreaming, dancing, and dress up!

Ask your child which princess, prince, or character they want to be for the day. Buy them the costume on Amazon and let them parade around in it all day.

They’ll feel so special posing for pictures in front of Cinderella’s castle while dressed like Cinderella.

Looking for Disney lanyards to keep your hotel key on? Try custom lanyards for you and your family.

2) Go to Epcot

Epcot is one of the 4 theme parks at Walt Disney World and it is as much educational as it is fun.

In this day and age, society is becoming more and more globalized. As technology increases our ability to communicate and travel, we have access to the whole world.

Epcot is a great place for your child to learn about other cultures. Epcot also has amazing food, fun rides, and adult beverages to make your day that much better.

3) Take Animal Lovers to Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom is another one of the four Disney World theme parks.

Animal Kingdom is home to more than 1,700 animals from 250 species. Your child can see and interact with animals they would never normally get to experience all while having fun at Disney.

4) Check For Special Magic Hours

If you’re staying at a Disney Resort, you can take advantage of Disney’s extra “Magic Hours”.

Resort guests can get access to one of the theme parks either an hour early or an hour late. This could save you a lot of time waiting for the best rides.

Be sure to head directly to Space Mountain during your extra magic hour. This way, the line won’t be long and you’ll get to enjoy a more open park.

5) Take Tons of Pictures

Your kids are only little once. Everyone says it goes by in a blink of an eye and it’s true.

Don’t get so stressed out planning the day that you forget to take pictures of your children enjoying the magic. Take candid pictures of their reactions when they see their favorite Disney characters. There’s nothing like capturing your child’s joy on film.

Enjoy These Disney World Tips

Before you head to the land of Mickey Mouse, take these Disney World tips into account.

Bringing your furry friend? Disney has a doggy daycare that you can keep him in while you enjoy the park.

If you enjoyed this article, have questions, or want to contact me for any reason, please do so here.

Now that the holiday season is over, you probably need a vacation from your vacation.

So, where can you go that’s far away from prying in-laws, screaming kids, and the town where you grew up in?

No matter what kind of destination you’re looking for or experience you’re interested in having, this list of some of our favorite luxury getaways will have you ready to hit the ground running in 2018.

Here’s to a healthier, happier, and more well-traveled you.

1. The Chiva-Som International Resort/Spa In Thailand

Did 2017 really do a number on your body? Have you noticed a few new wrinkles forming? Do you just feel like your alignment is completely out of whack?

If so, then book your stay at the iconic Chiva-Som resort in beautiful Thailand.

If you really want to reboot, then we suggest traveling for one of their many wellness retreats. You’ll get personalized wellness, physical, and even skin consultations. You can also take part in one (or more) of the eight daily fitness classes.

You’ll also get an incredible daily spa treatment, including a scalp massage, body polish, and the signature Chiva-Som massage. If you really want to take it to the next level, book your stay when a visiting consultant is on the grounds.

The resort frequently hires experts in facial relaxation, hypnotherapy, reflexology, and more to come and teach on the grounds.

Even better?

Don’t worry about dressing up. Guests usually walk around and explore in special pajamas and bathrobes designed by the resort.

2. The Marulivo Resort In Italy

Next up on our list of the best in luxury getaways?

The hidden gem that is the Marulivo Resort in the tiny village of Pisciotta, Italy. If you want to stay in stunning, specially-designed apartments that combine Italian comfort with the ultimate in luxury, then this is the place for you.

Think cozy stone fireplaces, balconies overlooking the sea, and enormous bathtubs that allow you to truly relax and take in the UNESCO World Heritage site surrounding the resort.

You’ll even be able to relax on a stone terrace and take in evening cocktails, the olive trees, and stunning sunsets.

Talk about romantic.

Especially if you want to experience the ultimate in Italian cuisine, you simply must book your stay here. In addition to stunning gastronomy and homemade bread with everything, you can also take Italian cooking classes, so you’ll be able to bring the knowledge back home with you.

What else is there to do at the resort?

Explore the ancient Paestum Temple, the Palinuro Cape and caves, or even take a ferry to Capri or tour the coast in a sailboat.

If you’re more the artistic type, the resort even offers local pottery classes.

Want to bring your furry friend along for the ride? Good news — the hotel is pet-friendly.

3. The Constance Moofushi In Maldives

Last on our list of luxury getaways?

The absolutely jaw-dropping, total escape that is the Constance Moofushi in Maldives. Think bright blue water, shining sun, your own seaside (we mean that the Indian Ocean is literally three feet away) private home, and more.

You’ll dine nightly on freshly-caught seafood, take sunset cruises, and even have the chance to swim with the dolphins. You’ll also be able to explore under the sea in private diving tours.

If you’re a fan of gold, there is a course available for you to play. In terms of spa treatments, it goes without saying that this resort offers some of the best in the world.

You’ll step into a stone and rose hot natural spring, enjoy rejuvenating facials, and experience the top massages. But you don’t have to worry about missing the scenery. You can be pampered on your porch, overlooking the Indian Ocean.

If that’s not luxury, we don’t know what is.

What Should You Bring?

Now that you have a few destinations in mind, it’s time to start packing for these luxury getaways.

So, what are a few things you need to take care of before you go?

First, if you’re traveling abroad, get to know the local currency. While it might be convenient to switch out your dollars at your destination’s airport, the commissions and exchange rates won’t be on your side. Always stash some cash before you go.

Additionally, make sure that you protect your phone from the elements, whether sand or snow. Invest in a Custom Envy phone case to ensure your data is always protected. Traveling at the last second? Don’t sweat it — they offer rush delivery for those spontaneous trips.

Finally, we suggest picking up this “Airplane Mode” travel kit to make sure you’re in tip-top shade when you arrive. It has an eye mask, emery board, wrinkle remover, and much more so you’ll land looking your best.

What Are Your Favorite Destinations For Luxury Getaways?

Thanks to this post, you have more than a few ideas about possible destinations for the most unforgettable luxury getaways.

Is there a special place you think we forgot to add? Where are your favorite places to travel when you want to be pampered and unwind? Let us know in the comments below!

Looking to vacation like your favorite celebrity?

Take your Instagram (and your luxury getaways) to the next level by checking out our website and blog. We’re sharing the latest scoops on must-have travel items, exotic destinations, and what you should wear to turn every head on the beach.

The only New Year’s resolution you really need to be happy?

Forget that ten pounds. Instead, make the time to travel, meet with locals, sample international cuisine, and definitely to meet that cute foreign hottie.

No one makes ’em bigger–or better–than Texas! And that goes double for the Lone Star state’s delicious cuisine. When traveling through or camping in the large state, there are a number of Texas destinations you’ll want to stop by to sample everything it has to offer.

Such notable Texas destinations for great food range from the urban cities to the rural southeast part of the state.

Central Texas

Central Texas is the home of the “Texas Trinity”: ribs, sausage, and brisket. Ribs come in either full-size spare ribs (which come from pork) or big beef ribs. Texas sausage is usually made of beef, but sometimes you’ll find it made of pork.

The Texas Trinity formed way back in the 19th century when Czech and German immigrants made their way to the center of the state. Both Czech and German cultures are noted for their love of meat, so it’s only natural that their mingling would lead to new meat creations.

Specifically, the Texas Trinity is the result of the two cultures finding new ways to preserve and recycle leftover meat. Some immigrants smoked it inside enclosed brick smokers while others ground it up to produce new sausage.

East Texas

Hot links, an east Texas delicacy, came to be in 1897 in Pittsburg, TX. That year, butcher Charlie Hasselbach sought a way to efficiently recycle scrap pieces of meat such as cheeks and tongue. He ended up grinding them into a paste which he then molded into raw hot links.

The original hot links took a hit of water and binder as well as some spice to mask any “outdated” flavor. Today, Texas hot links are made with fresh meat and sold at a myriad of different restaurants, stands, and food trucks.

In addition to hot links, you’ll find a great deal of Cajun food in east Texas (specifically southeast Texas). That area of the state’s close proximity to Louisiana has caused it to adopt some of the Pelican state’s cuisine.

The most noteworthy Louisiana-Texas crossover food is crawfish. Crawfish is a staple at mud festivals and other popular Texas events.

The Gulf Area

Without a doubt, the most popular food found along the Gulf coast in Texas is oysters.

While not as popular as east or west coast oysters, a true Texan appreciates oysters from the Gulf. They’re best eaten in-season when they’re plumper and sweeter.

South Texas

Much like southeast Texas has adopted some of its neighbor Louisiana’s delicacies, Mexico has influenced its neighbor south Texas’s cuisine.

Mexican staples such as tacos, fajitas, and the like first became popular in the Rio Grande Valley and San Antonio. Their popularity has since spread north to Austin and beyond, though, so you don’t need to learn how to make migas or any other ingredient to enjoy them!

Other Texas Destinations For Delicious Food

Texas is a huge state, and the number of amazing delicacies that it offers is endless. If you know of any other great Texas destinations for excellent cuisine, feel free to comment below or shoot me a line!

When you are inundated with emails from work at all hours of the day and night, you need to hit the great outdoors! When your children refuse to look up from their tablets and smartphones at the dinner table, it’s time for a family camping trip.

However, if the mere suggestion of camping strikes fear in your loved ones, here are some helpful family camping tips which will help you all disconnect from daily life and remember the thrills and serenity of nature.

1. Pack Right

You do not want to overpack on your voyage, but it is likely you will need a variety of outfits even if you are only away in the woods for a few days. Layers are important for cold nights and misty mornings; you can then discard the fleece pullovers and leggings as the day warms up.

If you are near a lake or a swimming hole, make sure you remember bathing suits. And take into account the fact that everyone may get muddy- so one extra pair of socks per person is advisable.

Invest in a lightweight travel pack for each camper. Kids can help out by carrying their own stuff and learn a lesson in prioritizing essentials. Not every teddy bear gets to go on the camping trip!

2. Plan your meals

Meals may be the biggest challenge of the family camping trip, especially when everyone has different palates. Most kids are used to grabbing whatever they like from the refrigerator at every hour of the day.

One of my favorite family camping tips is to pack a dutch oven. These handy items can cook a meal for a crowd easily and you can use them for breakfast, lunch or dinner. You can find a wide variety of cast iron dutch oven recipes for camping which will help you please even the pickiest eaters on your family camping trip.

3. Leave the electronics at home

To really reap the rewards of a family excursion into Mother Nature, you need to put down the iPhones and the computer. If you need your cell to stay in touch with work or you are concerned about a medical issue, lock it up in the glove compartment of your car so you can get it if you need it.

If your kids are not used to entertaining themselves without their devices, now is a great time to “get crafty.” You can show them how to create a nature journal to describe or sketch the flora and fauna they see, or they can make artwork out of leaves, twigs and stones.

4. Don’t forget the first aid kit!

From bug bites to blisters from new hiking boots to the ill-timed fever, you will want to be prepared with some medical care essentials when you are out in the woods. Make sure you pack band-aids, insect repellent, aspirin and rubbing alcohol to deal with those unexpected bumps and bruises.

It’s not just the kids who may require medical attention. Include any regular medication needed by the grown-ups on the trip. You don’t want to be an hour’s drive away from the nearest pharmacy if predictable health conditions arise.

5. Let everyone know what to expect

Another one of the most important family camping tips to remember is communication.

If there are family members new to camping, it’s important to prepare them for what they can expect. Children who are scared of the dark should know they will be sleeping outside under the stars. Grandma should be alerted to the fact that the public bathrooms are a fifteen-minute walk from the campsite.

Put a positive spin on the adventure! You all will be making memories that can last a lifetime.

Just let the first-timers know what it means to “rough it” if this is not one of their regular activities. Otherwise, you may expect some complaining to mar the fun.

Follow These Family Camping Tips For a Happy Escape

Whether you are exploring one of our country’s amazing national parks, or just starting out at a local campsite, a family camping trip can be the perfect way to reconnect with your loved ones. Without the distractions of the modern world, you can share good grub, fresh air and plenty of laughs by just getting away from it all.

Start planning your camping trip today!