SEEN's Spring and Summer Travel Guide by KCI Media Group

The Great Escape

Reason #881: Field Trips

In 2018 alone, 881 field trip groups experienced the wonder of water, wildlife and wild places at the South Carolina Aquarium. Book your field trip in 2019 and be a part of our growing number of annual visitors.

Contact (843) 579-8652 or groupsales@scaquarium.org to schedule your unique field trip.

EDUCATIONAL TRAVEL

6 Make Waves with Your Class

Table of Contents

10 AstroCamp Virginia 14 Amusement Parks:

How to Have Tons of Fun Safely

Days At The Museum

The N.C. Transportation Museum

Two Mississippi Museums

Exploring Fredericksburg

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

National Rights Museum

LEISURE TRAVEL

30 Coastal Charm Savannah 34 Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas 38 Beech Mountain, North Carolina 40 Taste the Best of Hendersonville at Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend

44 Cruisinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in 2019 45 Global Travel Tips www.seenmagazine.us

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

Letter From the Editor Sun’s out … and school is almost out! I know many of you need the next couple of months to go by quickly so you can enjoy some time off (deservedly so). However, before you start packing for that Caribbean vacation, there is still a lot of fun left with your students and this travel guide can point you to some great places to explore. This guide is designed to highlight educational/ student travel destinations that excite, but also leisure travel destinations to enjoy and put on your list this summer. From aquariums and museums to spa resorts, we’ve got you covered in this issue. As always, SEEN strives to bring the best to our readers and hope you enjoy making travel plans - for yourselves and your students - in the upcoming warm months. Enjoy! Deirdre Edwards Editor-In-Chief

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

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Educational Travel www.seenmagazine.us

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EDUCATIONAL TRAVEL

W a e v k es a M A Day At the Georgia Aquarium

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

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Georgia Aquarium is a leading 501(c) (3) non-profit organization located in Atlanta, Georgia, committed to working on behalf of all marine life through education, preservation, exceptional animal care, and research across the globe. Georgia Aquarium inspires, educates, and entertains millions of guests each year. The seven distinct galleries and more than 100 exhibits within Georgia Aquarium represent aquatic environments ranging from arctic to tropical waters and feature one of the most diverse assortments of aquatic animals anywhere. Field Trips Georgia Aquarium offers two program options for school groups. Students can participate in an instructor-led program or a general admission self-guided program. All of the Aquariumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education programs are aligned with Georgia Performance Standards (GPS). Whether students enjoy one of our instructor-led experiences or they explore the Aquarium on their own with our selfguided agenda, their experience will be infused with Georgia Performance Standards. General Admission is a self-guided tour through all the Aquariumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s galleries for grades pre-K through 12th. Our instructor-led programs provide focused learning opportunities where students can expand their understanding of aquatic ecosystems. Instructor-led programs are 45 minutes in length. Groups will have the remainder of their time at the Aquarium to explore the wonders of the aquatic world.

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SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

Georgia Aquarium offers a Sponsored Education Admissions (SEA) grant to ensure that diverse audiences, regardless of economic status, have an opportunity to participate in our unique educational experiences at no cost. Funding is limited! We are able to provide this gift to Title I schools and non-profit organizations operating in Georgia thanks to private charitable donations from generous corporations, foundations and individuals. Home School Programming Help your home school lessons come to life by cultivating curiosity at Tuesdays in the Field. During this experience,

home school students and their accompanying adults will have exclusive access to our interactive Aquanaut Adventure: A Discovery Zone for a unique self-paced program. Georgia Aquarium educators will be stationed throughout Aquanaut Adventure and in our classrooms to facilitate a variety of standards-based activities that will allow your students to investigate the scientific process by making observations, applying knowledge and drawing conclusions. Feel free to explore and participate in the activities at your own pace between the hours of 9:00am-1:00pm, and then make your way to the main floor to view our galleries,

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

AT&T Dolphin Celebration, sea lion presentation, and the 4D Funbelievable Theater. Call us today at 404.581.4000 for more information. SUPPORTS CLASSROOM LEARNING IN: Science. Topics Covered: Animals, conservation, ecology, marine life, ecosystems, environmental studies. School Programs – georgiaaquarium.org/experience/ learn/school-programs Sponsored Education Admissions Grant – georgiaaquarium.org/experience/ learn/school-programs/sponsorededucation-admission Booking – georgiaaquarium.org/ booking/group-tickets

Plan a field trip to Georgia Aquarium and immerse your students in a learning experience they’ll never forget. Our incredible 10-million gallon playground features sea lions, dolphins, beluga whales, manta rays, penguins, sea otters, whale sharks and thousands more. It’s the perfect environment to connect with nature. Our general admission and instructor-led programs focus on our conservation efforts and celebrate our world’s aquatic ecosystems. For details, email groupsales@GeorgiaAquarium.org or call 404.581.4000. Georgia Aquarium is a nonprofit committed to inspiring awareness and preservation of our ocean and aquatic animals worldwide.

EDUCATIONAL TRAVEL

ASTROCAMP VIRGINIA

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

What better way to learn about science and enjoy the summer than with hands-on labs and summer camp activities in a beautiful outdoor setting! That’s what Guided Discoveries’ Astrocamp provides kids during the warm months – a chance to learn more about science and enjoy a traditional summer camp experience. As experts in outdoor science schools and educational adventure summer camps, we here at Astrocamp make a positive difference in the lives of children through unique opportunities of discovery. Our beautiful outdoor locations, combined with hands on labs, field activities, adventure and traditional summer camp fun, enrich and inspire the lives of young people. Our programs allow kids to build life skills for a productive future. Our summer camp program in Virginia provides an experience of a lifetime for boys and girls, ages 8-14. Astrocamp Virginia is the finest sleep away science adventure camp.

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Just two hours north of Raleigh, North Carolina, our beautiful 406acre camp is found on the edge of the Staunton River surrounded by groves of oak, crepe myrtle, and walnut trees. While at AstroCamp Virginia, campers and counselors are housed in comfortable, climatecontrolled cabins with bunk beds. Cabins typically house six-toeight campers and two-to-three counselors. All of our high-quality, delicious meals are served buffet style in our dining hall. AstroCamp is home to a stateof-the-art observatory and labs that were custom built to meet and exceed the learning needs of campers with all different learning styles. Our eight labs provide campers with a safe environment where learning is a hands-on experience. Space exploration, physical and earth science, memories, friendships, and FUN are in store at our exciting one-week sessions. From the time of Sunday check-in, the packed week begins as kids get to know one another and bond before Monday’s core activities. When the sun rises

on Monday, the core activities (3D Printing, Robotics, Drones, etc.) and electives (Go-Karting, Space Art, and Dungeons & Dragons) begin – rotating throughout the week for everyone to try. Rest and relaxation is also part of our summer camp experience. We build in time for siestas and recreational activities to break up the day. At night, there may be a lake or pool party, campfires, theater or campouts to unwind and mingle with others. Astrocamp Culture: Standards, Instructors And Counselors We have fun and make sure learning science is just as fun with qualified instructors leading the way in core activities. AstroCamp takes pride in hiring the highest quality staff and undergoes an extensive American Camp Association (ACA) accreditation process every five years. The accreditation requires we adhere to more than 250 standards ranging from safety to program design. All of the AstroCamp instructors

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

are required to have at least a Bachelors Degree, and it is not uncommon for our instructors to have a Masters Degree or PhD. Our instructors come to AstroCamp from all over the United States and occasionally from overseas. Safety is one of our primary goals therefore all instructors are required to have first aid, CPR-PR, and Waterfront Lifeguard certifications as well as comprehensive on-site training. All cabin counselors are current university students with a background working with children. Applicants go through a rigorous hiring process including multiple interviews, a background check,

and drug testing. Many cabin counselors were even campers themselves! Counselors go through a rigorous 8-day training program prior to any campers arriving at camp. They are trained in team-building, groupleading, child development, safety, and being sensitive to individual campers needs and life experiences. Counselors complete training with the tools and knowledge to support campers through common camp challenges such as homesickness, trying new things, and friendship building. Preparing For Camp We provide all the information

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you need to get ready for camp â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from checklists to fees to housing to flight information. We want to make sure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re well-informed about our process beforehand and also any needs your camper may have during the course of the week. Please visit https:// astrocampsummerva.org/parentguide/ to find all the information you need to enroll your camper this year.

EDUCATIONAL TRAVEL

Amusement Parks: How to Have Tons of Fun Safely Every child, and every child at heart, knows there is a certain magic about an amusement park. It’s more than just the rides and food – it’s a feeling of freedom and fun rolled into one. With the spring and summer seasons, people flock to amusement parks and water parks across the country. In fact, according to the 2017 Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) /AECOM Global Attractions Report, there were more than 475 million annual visitors at the top 10 theme park groups worldwide. As your groups prepare to travel to these parks throughout the spring and summer, Lisa Stryker, Director of Communications for Carowinds (Cedar Fair Entertainment), says to keep these things in mind:

show times too and plan around the ones you want to see. •A rrive early and/or stay late. Start your day at the back of the park for the best chance at avoiding long lines. Start at the most popular rides. • Arrange a meeting place for if

•P urchase tickets in advance. The best deals are available online. Consider a season pass if you plan to visit more than once. The cost is usually less that the cost of two individual tickets. ign up for the park’s email •S newsletter to be alerted to special sales as soon as they’re available. • Spend some time on the park website planning out your day. Let each family member pick a few attractions they want to visit and then plot your course on the park map. Check height and weight restrictions for each ride to avoid disappointment. Check 16

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

you get separated. Choose a place that’s easy to find and/or is near a tall landmark. The above tip about a meeting place is one many safety precautions visitors need to keep in mind at parks. Some precautions are simple, common sense tips: follow park rules, keep your eyes on your kids, stay close by at water parks (even if your kids are strong swimmers), take breaks between high speed rides, stay hydrated, choose age – appropriate rides, use ride safety belts and equipment, know the signs of injury, and have an emergency escape plan (https://www.parents. com/fun/vacation/theme-parks/9ways-to-stay-safe-at-amusementparks/). Also, just from experience, make sure you keep up with all money, credit cards, and electronics (earbuds/ headphones/cellphones) while at the park. It’s so easy to lose these items if they are not secured and can put a damper on the fun if lost at a crowded amusement park. With all the sage advice above, it’s important to remember one of the last tips Stryker gives, “Remember, even if the park is crowded and the weather isn’t cooperating, everyone is there to have a good time. A sense of humor will go a long way toward helping you create happy memories together. Relax and go with the flow.”

Have Fun!

If you have ever seen “Night At The Museum” with Ben Stiller, you know how exciting a trip to a museum can be – minus the exhibits coming to life. There is so much history packed into these buildings, you never stop learning about how the past has just as much affect on us present-day. One of the most famed group of museums, The Smithsonian Institute, offers some very useful hints and tips everyone can use when exploring a museum. The Smithsonian says (https://www.si.edu/visit/tips) because of safety measures, people should be patient upon during peak seasons and holidays. The institute also advises to avoid the crowds by arriving early on weekends or late on weekdays. They also advise you to move against the current and if possible, start your visit on upper floors and work your way down. The National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) also advises time limits. On their website, NEH gives this tip – with some museum aficionados suggesting visits should be a maximum of two hours. NEH also suggests selecting just a few museums to visit if you’re travelling to a new city or country. This, they say, makes the museum experience more manageable for everyone. These are just some tips to consider when visiting museums this spring and over the summer (wear comfortable shoes!!). We know you’ll have tons of fun exploring these venues and the next section will, hopefully, provide you with some ideas for museum travel in the upcoming months. Enjoy! www.seenmagazine.us

Days At The Museum

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

EDUCATIONAL TRAVEL

The N.C. Transportation

Museum

The N.C. Transportation Museum is a 60-acre former industrial site that now houses immersive exhibits focusing on all forms of transportation history â&#x20AC;&#x201C; railroading, automotive, and aviation. It is always a great place for families to visit, and students are, of course, welcome as well. School groups have numerous tour offerings that meet North Carolina curriculum standards for history, arts, or STEM. Visit the massive 1905 Back Shop, where steam locomotives were once overhauled, to view horse drawn vehicles, trucks, planes and boats. Walk through the largest remaining roundhouse in North America to experience railroad exhibits and the full-size replica Wright Flyer. Take a spin on the 100-ft roundhouse turntable used to switch locomotives and rail cars from track to track. See automotive exhibits that detail the evolution of cars and trucks from 1900 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1960s. Guided tours are offered each Tuesday and Wednesday, 18

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

School groups can schedule a train ride before or after their tour of the site. The museum also offers themed days designed specifically for school groups, like Wind & Wings: The Science of Flight March 22 and the museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tractors and Trains Festival April 5. Each of these days will feature multiple station stops that kids can enjoy as they tour site, with hands-on activities and more. Learn more about the museum that moves by visiting www.nctrans.org, or call Terri Brown, to schedule your school group, at 704-636-2889 ext. 270. Home school groups of 15 or more are also welcome! Please schedule your visit in advance. covering each exhibit building, lasting 60-90 minutes. Thursday and Friday, ongoing activities are offered across the site from 9:30am to 12:30pm, covering a variety of modes of transportation, while engaging students in handson learning, including learning how Native Americans built dugout canoes, racing each other to build cars quickly and correctly on a Henry-Ford style assembly line, climbing into the can of a steam locomotive to learn how these giant machines moved down the tracks, and designing a railroad and locomotive paint scheme. Of course, train rides are offered each Thursday and Friday during spring months, and each day the museum is open during the summer months. Roll down the rails during a 25-minute train ride around this historic site, powered by vintage locomotive equipment.

VISIT THE MUSEUM THAT MOVES YOU! Spencer, NC

Train Rides Play Aviation Classic Spaces Displays Autos Immersive Exhibits

Schedule your school group tour or your family trip by visiting nctrans.org or calling 704-636-2889 NCTRANS.ORG

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nctrans.org

704-636-2889

1 Samuel Spencer Dr. Spencer, NC 28159

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EDUCATIONAL TRAVEL

Special Exhibits

at Two Mississippi Museums A new exhibit at the Museum of Mississippi History and Mississippi Civil Rights Museum showcases rare artifacts uncovered from the wreckage of a sunken slave ship. On Saturday, February 2, Spirits of the Passage: The Story of the Transatlantic Slave Trade—a traveling exhibit of the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum—will open in the FedEx and Medgar and Myrlie Evers Exhibition Halls at the Two Mississippi Museums and run through August 11, 2019. “Spirits of the Passage is an amazing look at the many voices that were never heard during the Middle Passage,” said Mississippi Civil Rights Museum director Pamela D.C. Junior. “The exhibition will home in on the pain and the people who were taken from their native lands by force. We hope that people will reflect on their own lives and ancestral heritage and honor the great people who through integrity, fortitude, and strength 20

brought over art and culture, religion, agriculture, and a host of other phenomenal attributes that we see in our everyday lives.” An exhibit that explores the work of master quilter Gwendolyn Magee will accompany Spirits of the Passage. On loan from the Mississippi Museum of Art, The Slave Series: Quilts by Gwendolyn Magee features powerful quilts that were stitched to tell the story of the history of slavery. “The Mississippi Museum of Art is pleased to be a part of this monumental exhibition at the Two Mississippi Museums,” said Mississippi Museum of Art director Betsy Bradley. “Embedded in Gwen Magee’s beautiful, sometimes shimmering, technique is a haunting emotionality that affects the viewer with empathy and deepened understanding of the traumas of our history. Gwen would be thrilled to have her work shown at these important museums with this

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

groundbreaking exhibition.” Spirits of the Passage explores the forced migration of millions of Africans through the wreckage of the Henrietta Marie, an English slave ship that capsized off the coast of Florida in 1700. Along with more than 125 rarely seen artifacts from West Africa and the Americas, the exhibit includes a replica of the once-crowded hull of the Henrietta Marie. Spirits of the Passage takes the story of the slave trade through Emancipation and into the modern Civil Rights Movement. Built in France as a privateer, the Henrietta Marie was captured by England during a military skirmish and repurposed as a merchant slaver. The ship made two voyages across the Atlantic Ocean, first for Barbados where it arrived on July 9, 1698, with 250 Africans aboard. The ship sank heading home from Jamaica in 1700. The Henrietta Marie was rediscovered by Mel Fisher and his

team of divers in 1972. During a series of excavations in the 1980s and 1990s, marine archaeologists found pewter objects,silverware, and other personal items. The wreck also contained shackles, beads, tusks, and a large bell—evidence of its use as a slave ship. Artifacts found during the excavations are the basis of the Spirits of the Passage exhibit. “We’ve worked with a distinguished group of scholars from across the country to ensure that we’re doing this vast topic justice on not only an academic level, but a human one as well,” said Mel Fisher Maritime Museum president and CEO Melissa Kendrick. “Everyone who visits this exhibition should expect to have a deeply emotional experience. In presenting these

authentic objects we examine the depths of the human spirit.” This exhibit was made possible with the support of StateStreet Group, LLC and Visit Jackson. Ticket prices for Spirits of the Passage are $10 for adults and $6 for children. Discounts are available for children under three, students, seniors, active duty and military veterans, and groups of ten or more. Tickets may be purchased for Spirits of the Passage alone, or in combination with admission to the Museum of Mississippi History and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. Purchase your tickets at the door or online at www. twomississippimuseums.com/spirits. The Two Mississippi Museums welcome groups of up to 200 people;

advance reservations are encouraged. Museum hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. The Museum of Mississippi History opened alongside the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum December 9, 2017, in celebration of the state’s bicentennial. The Museum of Mississippi History explores the entire sweep of the state’s history. The Mississippi Civil Rights Museum explores the period from 1945 to 1976, when Mississippi was ground zero for the Civil Rights Movement nationally. The Two Mississippi Museums are administered by the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. The museums are located at 222 North Street, Jackson, MS 39201.

F e b r u a r y 2 – a u g u s t 11 , 2 0 1 9

A sea of stolen lives. A ship that never landed. A voice, unsilenced. Explore rare, firsthand accounts of loss and resilience from the unlikely discovery of a sunken slave ship. 222 North Street, Jackson twomississippimuseums.com/spirits

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StateStreet Group, LLC

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EDUCATIONAL TRAVEL

Fredericksburg Exploring

The Fredericksburg region, consisting of the city of Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania County and Stafford County, is conveniently located between Richmond and Washington, D.C. and offers a rich history with a multitude of opportunities for students to interact with the historical events and remarkable people who helped form our country. Here are some Fredericksburg’s museums and tourist’s favorite attractions:

Your visit to the home of Mrs. Washington, purchased for her by son George, takes you back to a time when social customs were much different from today.

homeschoolers. On-site programs include grade level appropriate educational tours of our extensive collection, which reflects both James Monroe and early America.

Ferry Farm

Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park

You will walk the grounds where George Washington grew up and explore the recently built replica house through hands-on activities. Kenmore

This beautiful home was the plantation home where George Washington’s sister lived with The Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop her husband, Fielding Lewis, and An eighteenth-century building their children. Learn about the was restored to house the Hugh differences and similarities between Mercer Apothecary Shop, a museum life in colonial times and life today. of medicine, pharmacy, and military Fredericksburg Area Museum and political affairs. Dr. Mercer The Fredericksburg Area Museum served the citizens of Fredericksburg (FAM) offers educational programs with medicines and treatments conducted in the museum’s of the time – leeches, lancets, galleries, schools and libraries. snakeroot, and crab claws made up FAM’s programs cover the history just some of his remedies. of our region including the The Rising Sun Tavern

Tavern wenches and indentured servants will entertain students with a lively interpretation of 18th century tavern life. You’ll learn how class and gender dictated lodgings and meals, what difficulty the Stamp Act presented, and how to not “bite off more than you can chew.” Mary Washington House 22

Virginia Indians, 18th-century life, the American Civil War, Civil Rights, the importance of the Rappahannock River to our community, and archaeology. James Monroe Museum

The James Monroe Museum offers both on-site and supplemental online educational opportunities for teachers, classroom students, and

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

All field trips to the park are free and may be customized to meet the needs of each group. Classes typically spend 90 minutes at each site, and often combine visits to multiple locations in the same day. Rangers strive to provide interactive, on-the-ground experiences for all students.

Fredericksburg Battlefield

Students may explore multiple sites on this battlefield with a park ranger, including the Sunken Road, battle-damaged Innis House, Marye’s Heights, and the National Cemetery. Some programs include marching and drilling with

wooden muskets or cannon-firing demonstrations. Chatham Manor

This large house was built in 1771 and visited by George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Learn about the slaves and soldiers who were at this plantation before, during, and after the Civil War. Chancellorsville Battlefield

Visit the site where Confederate General “Stonewall” Jackson was wounded and learn stories of this battle from a park ranger. Learn about Lee’s Greatest Victory and the daring maneuvers that are still studied by the military today. Spotsylvania County Museum

The Spotsylvania County Museum provides a comprehensive history of Spotsylvania from 1722. The Museum works with the teacher to assemble special programs on the County’s diverse history which includes allowing students to experience handson activities utilizing artifacts for the museum’s collections.

to explore this unique 18th century estate, tour stunning art galleries, visit the restored gardens and explore the property’s trails. Belmont is a unique and enriching destination for classes, art clubs, and homeschoolers, day cares and scouting groups. Customized field trips for all ages are also available. Shannon Air Museum and Virginia Aeronautical Aviation Society Headquarters

The Shannon Air Museum houses one of the rarest collections of vintage aircraft in the world, including planes from World War I and World War II. Discover famous aviators, view historic artifacts and learn about the founding of one of the first major airlines.* At the River’s Edge Environmental

Education Program

ATRE provides students with interactive, outdoor science and history education opportunities. Their goal is to give teachers and students a safe, fun, hands-on experience that will inspire respect and stewardship for the Rappahannock and its watershed. John J. Wright Educational & Cultural Center Museum

Journey through the social context of African American education in Spotsylvania, its transformation through successful integration, and the closure of the historic John J. Wright Middle School. The museum is located inside the original school’s library. Key topics include segregation, African American culture, local history and integration. Riverside Center for the Performing Arts

White Oak Civil War Museum

The Stafford County side of the Rappahannock River was home to 140,000 soldiers following the Battle of Fredericksburg. Most of the items in the museum, representing both Union and Confederate troops, were discarded or lost by troops camping or fighting in the area. Students will be amazed by the replicas of soldiers’ huts used as temporary housing during the winter months. Gari Melchers Home & Studio at Belmont

Students have the opportunity www.seenmagazine.us

visitfred.com

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EDUCATIONAL TRAVEL

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Located in the epicenter of Birmingham’s Civil Rights District, BCRI is a self-directed, walking, one-of-a-kind experience. Take a moving and unforgettable journey through history and experience what life was like as the civil rights and human rights movements took shape in Birmingham, Alabama. Our mission is to enlighten each generation about civil and human rights by exploring our common past and working together in the present to build a better future BCRI was designated in 2017 as part of a Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument, along with the A.G. Gaston Motel, Kelly Ingram Park, The Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, Bethel Baptist Church and St. Paul’s United Methodist Church. As part of the National Park Service, 24

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

BCRI is an affiliate of the Smithsonian Museums. BCRI provides free educational programs to K-12 students that explore the lessons of the Civil Rights Movement. Incorporating interactive programs, roleplay, oral histories and documentary, the programs empower students with a better understanding of the movement’s complexities. BCRI Outreach programs reach 20,000 people annually in area schools, churches, club meetings and other venues. In addition, BCRI offers free, engaging field trips and impactful programs, such as the Legacy Youth Leadership Program, that foster leadership and college readiness skills. Other programs include Heritage Alive! – encouraging young learners to read – and the Birmingham Cultural Alliance Partnership, promoting cultural literacy for students and families. From festive community days to compelling speakers, panel

discussions and films, BCRI offers year-round free programming to spark conversation and convene the community around awareness of our collective past and shared future. Through our Archives Department, we carefully and selectively collect, house and make accessible records and documents relating to the universal struggle for civil and human rights. Make your memorable visit even more so with a souvenir from our gift store. The store is accessible to the public through the entrance on 16th

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Street and features a variety of unique items. BCRI members receive 10% of their purchase every day.

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EDUCATIONAL TRAVEL

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

National Rights Museum Chronicles Civil Rights Movement

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Located at the Lorraine Motel, the assassination site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the National Civil Rights Museum chronicles key episodes of the American Civil Rights Movement, examines today’s global civil and human rights issues, provokes thoughtful debate and serves as a catalyst for social positive change. The National Civil Rights Museum is the only museum devoted to a comprehensive overview of the American Civil Rights Movement from 1619 to the present. The Lorraine Motel was forever etched in America’s collective memory with the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1968, but even before that fateful day, the property had a fascinating history in its own right. In 1945, black businessman Walter Bailey purchased the hotel and renamed it the Lorraine after his wife Loree and the popular jazz song, “Sweet Lorraine.” The motel became a destination for blacks and appeared in the Negro Motorists Green Book or “Green Guide,” which identified establishments that welcomed black travelers when Jim Crow restrictions offered limited options for services and lodging. By 1982, the Lorraine Motel was a foreclosed property. A group of prominent Memphians formed the Martin Luther King Memorial Foundation to save the Lorraine. In December 1982, the Foundation purchased the Lorraine at auction for $144,000. Eventually, enough funds from public and private sectors were raised to build a SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

museum within the Lorraine Motel and an official groundbreaking was held in 1987. On September 28, 1991, the museum opened its doors to visitors. The Museum is a private 501 (c) (3). The historic Lorraine Motel building is operated under a lease agreement with the State of Tennessee with oversight of the State of Tennessee Museum system. It relies on financial support from admissions, memberships, museum shop sales, facilities usage, and private donations. The museum receives no ongoing annual funding from city, county or federal governments. The museum campus has three buildings, two of which have over 52,800 square feet of permanent exhibition space. Located on the grounds are a courtyard with promenade park, administrative office building, two museum stores, library, classroom, guest lounge, multipurpose event room, theatre and changing gallery. It includes the building where James Earl Ray allegedly fired the shot that killed Dr. King, with prosecution evidence and conspiracy theory displays. In 2008, the museum launched a $40 million capital and endowment campaign, of which $28 million was for major renovation and $12 million was for museum endowment. The renovation of the exhibitions in the historic Lorraine Motel was completed April 2014. A Smithsonian Affiliate, the museum is accredited by the Alliance of American Museums, a founding member of the 28

International Coalition of Sites of Conscience, and a member of several historical and museum associations. The museum has received the TripExpert’s Choice Award (top two percent among travel publications) and Best of Memphis Award. It has also been awarded TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Top 5% of U.S. Museum, USA Today’s Top 10 Best American Iconic Attractions; Top 10 Best Historical Spots in the U.S. by TLC’s Family Travel; Must See by the Age of 15 by Budget Travel and Kids; Top 10 American Treasures by USA Today; and Best Memphis Attraction by The Commercial Appeal and the Memphis Business Journal. The museum’s average annual attendance is 350,000, of which 90,000 are students. Over 77 percent of the museum’s visitors live over 120 miles away. With 80 percent of its guests visiting for the first time, the museum continues to be an economic driver by attracting new visitors to the historic site and to Memphis. The National Civil Rights Museum’s Freedom Award is bestowed annually on individuals who have fought for freedom, justice, and equality in America and around the world. The museum’s signature event, the Freedom Award is a three-part occasion with a Student Forum in the morning, and a Pre-Show Gala and Awards Ceremony that evening. The King Day Celebration each January celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on the national holiday.

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

Each April 4th is a program of remembrance commemorating Dr. King’s death. The museum has engaged younger audiences through its annual Ruby Bridges Reading Festival, Drop the Mic Poetry Slam and the Night at the Lorraine events as well as its Small but Mighty summer story time and educational outreach programs. During the 50th anniversary year of Dr. King’s death, the museum worked to help the world reflect without lingering on the past, and propel forward with “MLK50: Where Do We Go from Here?” To affect a commemoration of this magnitude, the museum engaged many community partners locally and nationally. The Commemoration culminated April 2-4 with a two-day symposium, a Day of Remembrance, the Commemoration Ceremony with worldwide bell tolling at 6:01p.m. — the moment Dr. King was shot — and an Evening of Storytelling that brought together civil rights icons and New Movement Makers in a national dialogue about the Movement then and now. Museum President Terri Lee Freeman described MLK50 as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to draw direct motivation from the past and present vanguards of the ongoing fight for the rights of all citizens. “MLK50 is not intended to be a simple look back at the past; April 4th is just the beginning; we want to continue the momentum, build on Dr. King’s legacy, and fully actualize his platforms of peace, justice, and equity on April 5th and beyond.”

THE POWER

of PLACE. More than a museum, a public square. There is power in experience. More than exhibits, lessons. There is power in knowledge. More than events, opportunities. There is power in connection. More than history, today and tomorrow. There is power in moving forward. More than a destination, a journey. There is power in purpose.

S E E . L E A R N . E N G A G E . A C T.

450 Mulberry Street | Memphis, TN 38103 | civilrightsmuseum.org

Leisure Travel SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

Make family memories to last a lifetime.

Hilton Head Island is a place unlike any other. As a proud winner of the title of “Best Island in the U.S.” for three years in a row by Condé Nast Traveler and Travel and Leisure, this small-town island boasts beautiful weather all year-round, over 120 non-chain restaurants, world-class golf courses, retail outlets, boutiques, thrift stores, and markets to please even the most ardent shop-a-holics, and an abundance of unique wildlife and stunning natural beauty. With endless opportunities for a day spent outdoors or on the water, time slows down when you’re on Hilton Head. The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa lies nestled among the palmetto trees and perched on these famous whitesand beaches. Offering 416 luxurious guest rooms, including 32 suites, four delectable and locally-inspired dining options, three oceanfront pools, and plenty of activities available right here, our resort makes bringing the family closer together and creating lifelong memories feel effortless. Voted 2018 Favorite Hotel/Resort by Hilton Head Monthly Reader’s Choice!

CONNECT WITH US

843.681.4000 WESTINHILTONHEADISLAND.COM 2 GRASSLAWN AVENUE | HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC 29928

LEISURE TRAVEL

Savannah, Georgia’s oldest city, is a charming Southern escape, where quirkiness materializes through art, period architecture houses and trendy boutiques, where ghost stories are set under a veil of Spanish moss, and local cuisine comes straight from the coast. As artsy and eclectic as it is steeped in history and lore, Savannah strikes the perfect balance between hip urban 32

living and sweet Southern charm as one of America’s friendliest and most beautiful cities. What to Do Whether you’re a nature lover or history buff, Savannah has something for you. Tour 22 beautiful park-like squares—lush and green all year long,

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

stroll along River Street and take a trip to Savannah’s beach, Tybee Island. The heart and soul of downtown Savannah is verdant Forsyth Park. This 30-acre urban oasis has hosted outdoor concerts and spontaneous gourmet gatherings since 1840. Don’t forget to explore the city’s numerous museums, galleries and boutiques during your stay. Each

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SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

Historic District square is surrounded with shops and museums, but the up-and-coming Starland Arts District is where the movers and shakers are getting started. At Starlandia Creative Supply, you can sift through everything from paint and canvases to mannequin parts and vintage books to find that perfect addition to your project you’ve been looking for. If you’re a museum buff, Savannah has historic house museums a-plenty, but there’s a lot more than beautiful architecture here. Get a full picture of what it was like to live in the early 19th century at the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters Museum, telling the stories of the family who lived in the 1819 mansion as well as the enslaved people who built the house and worked there. The American Prohibition Museum details the dry years throughout the country but also takes a focused look at what the Prohibition Era was like in Georgia and Savannah. Don’t miss the speakeasy above the museum, serving authentic recipes (and mocktails!) during museum hours and an extended 34

menu after hours. Just south of Savannah’s Historic District on Skidaway Island is the Gullah-Geechee community of Pin Point, where generations of Geechee families have made their living fishing, shrimping and picking crab and shucking oysters for the Varn & Sons cannery. Now that former cannery is the Pin Point Heritage Museum, a unique space dedicated to the history and disappearing culture of the Geechee people and the Pin Point community itself. After exploring the museum, make a stop at Wormsloe State Historic Site with its iconic oak-canopied avenue, one of the most-photographed places in Savannah. What to Eat Savannah will enthrall you with its mouthwatering variety of delectable fare. From wild Georgia shrimp to crispy fried chicken, Savannah’s menu is authentic and world-famous! It’s also home to a number of barbecue and soul food joints that dish out Southern staples like slow-cooked pulled pork

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and fluffy red velvet cake. Each morsel will melt in your mouth and have you asking for seconds. Start with award-winning eatery The Grey, Savannah’s Art Deco former Greyhound Bus Station transformed into an elegant dining spot on one of downtown’s busiest thoroughfares. Owner Johno Morisano and chef Mashama Bailey have recently embarked on a second restaurant project in downtown Savannah called The Grey Market, a fusion of the traditional Southern lunch counter with a modern grab-and-go bodega concept prevalent in New York, where they both learned the restaurant business. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try one of Leopold’s Ice Cream’s world-famous flavors, made proudly in Savannah for 100 years, a fresh pecan praline from one of River Street’s candy shops, and fresh Georgia shrimp and grits from East End Provisions or Vic’s on the River. When the Sun Goes Down When the sun goes down, the spirits stay up as the nightlife is in full swing. Whether you like authentic live music or you dance to a different beat, Savannah has variety. Looking for hard rock or soft jazz? You’ll find dozens of bars and clubs offering live music nightly. Plus, local events like the Savannah Music Festival, Savannah Stopover Festival and the Savannah Jazz Festival bring A-list artists to Georgia’s First City year-round. If you’re more into the “spirits of the night,” Savannah is also home to many cemetery and ghost tours. This is the only place where you can ride in a real hearse to explore some of the

city’s most famous haunts! Known for years as “America’s most haunted city,” Savannah is full-to-overflowing with haunted inns, restaurants and more. The Pirates’ House restaurant, referenced in Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island, is said to be rife with the spirits of seafarers (not to mention some of the best fried chicken in town). The Savannah Theatre is the oldest continuously operating theater in the country, so it’s only natural that it has several spirits haunting its hallways. And the 1892 Kehoe House is now the No.1 hotel in Savannah according to TripAdvisor, but was once a funeral parlor and before that was the Kehoe family mansion, and it’s said that mischievous children relegated to

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an attic room during parties still roll billiard balls down the stairs to get the adults’ attention. Learn more about Savannah’s many different neighborhoods,

find detailed itineraries and start planning your Savannah getaways at VisitSavannah.com. Don’t forget to tag your photos on social media with #VisitSavannah!

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

LEISURE TRAVEL

Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas By Jim Miller A historic tourist town nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas, overflows with a fountain of journeys for history aficionados, baseball fans, nature enthusiasts and families who love to geek out over science. For those curious voyagers seeking to pique the interest of the kiddos Hot Springs has an abundance to offer as well. A different kind of family destination for many reasons, Hot Springs offers up a plethora of outdoor 36

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

recreation opportunities such as camping, hiking, fishing and mountain biking all conveniently located for those families who enjoy being active but who also enjoy more comfortable amenities of a popular and lively downtown area. While you are taking in all of the sights that Hot Springs has to offer be sure to take a journey along the historic baseball trail, or go on a day long excursion on the Northwoods Trails. Newcomers exploring Hot Springs will have their pick of ample landscapes to enjoy whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on a hike on one of

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the many designated trails in the Hot Springs National Park, or itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on a scenic drive over West Mountain or North Mountain Drive. Families may also go on fishing or camping excursions on one of the many beautiful and pristine lake areas found in the region. If your family does wish to embark on an outdoor camping adventure in the depths of the Hot Springs National Park be sure to visit the campgrounds at Gulpha Gorge where you can admire the stars around a roaring campfire and hike one of the numerous trails around the Hot Springs National Park. Famous

for its thermal waters and home to the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smallest National Park, Hot Springs offers something for the entire family with opportunities for outdoor adventure, leisure spa days, and plenty of fun for the kids. Travelers visiting Hot Springs will learn a lot and it will not be just about the native flora and fauna, but they can discover the history of the National Park, downtown Hot Springs and also learn about natural areas around the Lake Ouachita and Lake Catherine State Parks. The largest lake in Arkansas and one of the cleanest lakes in the country,

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Lake Ouachita is known for its natural recreational opportunities and for hosting nationally recognized fishing tournaments. Learn about the geothermal waters flowing beneath the National Park while strolling along historic Bathhouse Row or take the family on a science field trip with a visit to Mid-America Science Museum. Established in 1979, MidAmerica Science Museum is an award-winning educational museum boasting more than 100 hands-on state of the art science exhibits including the Guinness World Record’s Most Powerful Conical Tesla Coil, and the new Oaklawn Foundation DinoTrek, the states’ first and only outdoor dinosaur trail where guests can learn about dinosaurs from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods. Guests may also conquer their fear of heights by balancing on one of the rope bridges found on the Bob Wheeler Science Skywalk, an outdoor architectural feature that includes interactive features and exhibits — MidAmerica Science Museum sparks the interest of everyone especially those who are young at heart and who have an interest in allthings-science related. Enjoy the natural wonder of the Natural State and plan a visit to Garvan Woodland Gardens and their all-new outdoor Tree House found within the Evans Children’s Adventure Garden. A division of the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville and the 38

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

Fay Jones School of Architecture and Design, Garvanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest Tree House attraction floats among a small group of pines and oaks. Modus studios designed this tree house with the study of trees and wooded plants in mind, making it a major highlight when visiting the gardens year-round. Carefully designed to teach children about nature through interactive exhibits and structures, interpretive elements of the Tree House enable children to learn as they explore. Garvan Gardens preserves and enhances a unique part of the Ouachita Mountains and is definitely a must-see for visitors to Hot Springs. If your kids are looking for something more along the lines of a thrill ride then take them to Magic Springs Theme and Water Park where they can experience gravity-defying roller coaster rides, and more attractions appropriate for families. Not just your typical theme park, Magic Springs also offers a stunning lineup of annual concerts and for guests looking to cool off on a hot day try a dip in their water park which features fun and safe water attractions like the Crystal Cove Wave Pool, Lagoon Pool, and the Grizzly Creek Family Splash Zone for thrill-seeking families and children of all ages. Let the kids pick where you go on vacation this summer and visit Hot Springs, Arkansas where there is a little something for everyone, especially for those www.seenmagazine.us

who are curious and inquisitive by nature. A fun educational getaway, Hot Springs hosts a plethora of attractions for those seeking the right vacation destination for the entire family.

For more information visit www.hotsprings.org.

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

LEISURE TRAVEL

Beech Mountain, North Carolina Eastern America’s Highest Town

Are you looking for a great destination to relax, recharge, and reconnect? Things are looking up, literally—at Beech Mountain, North Carolina! Beech Mountain is the highest town in Eastern America, with a peak elevation of 5,506 feet. A ski resort sits in the middle of the town and doubles as a downhill mountain bike park in the summer. Beech Mountain is home to the Land of Oz, a beloved theme park that operated from 1970-1980, which sits on the highest peak of the mountain. Visitors can tour the Land of Oz on Fridays during the month of June and on the second 40

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

weekend in September with ticketed admission. The Overlook Barn, winner of the Venue Report’s Best New Venue in 2016 and Wedding Wire’s Couples Choice Awards in 2018, sits atop a ridge just outside of town limits. The predominant feature of Beech Mountain is one that everyone can feel; it rarely exceeds 79 degrees in the summer and receives an average of over 80 inches of snow in the winter. Cool and breezy, lacking in humidity and mosquitoes, and completely devoid of riptides and sharks – this is one “Beech” everyone can love! This winter the Beech Mountain Resort offers 17 slopes and 9 lifts,

where skiers and snowboarders of all abilities can find just the right run, and tubing and ice skating are available for those looking for a different way to enjoy the cool weather and abundant snowfall. Those new to the slopes need not worry; lessons are available daily for both skiers and snowboarders. For those who’d rather not be out in the cold, there are other options at the resort. The Beech Mountain Brewery creates six amazing brews in its own brew house, and both the Beech Mountain Taproom and the Lodge have something to please every palate. Music lovers will enjoy the great lineup at the resort, with live performances every Friday and Saturday through midMarch. Performers include the Harris Brothers, the Steel Drivers, Dr. Bacon, and Melissa Reaves. Back in town, look for more great music at the local restaurants and bars, including live music by Nate Harris every Thursday night at the Famous Brick Oven Pizzeria. The town has nine restaurants, four ski www.seenmagazine.us

shops and Fred’s General Mercantile, for your shopping needs from socks to bacon and eggs. For those who are interested in trout fishing, the Town’s Mountain Heritage Trout Waters offer great angling, and hikers will enjoy more than 25 miles of public trails year-round. Some of these trails are suitable for cross-country skiing

and snowshoeing as well; contact the town’s Parks and Recreation department at 828-387-3003 for more information. For kids 12 and under, the Town of Beech Mountain provides a free sledding hill next door to the Visitor Center; it’s open 1-5 pm on weekdays and 9-5 pm on weekends and holidays. Special events this winter include BeerFest on January 5th and Retro 80’s Weekend February 21-24. Once you get up on the mountain, you’ll want to stay; check out what’s available from hotels and condos to private homes at https://www.beechmtn.com/ lodging. Go to the “Deals” page to learn more about the $119 perperson ski and stay packages or the $450 Entourage special. For more information, go to BeechMtn. com or call (828) 387-9283.

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

LEISURE TRAVEL

Taste the Best of

Hendersonville at Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

In Hendersonville, North Carolina, apples reign supreme. A ride along back roads outside of town reveals slopes covered in orchards. Cool nights in summer and bright, sunny days in winter, provide ideal growing conditions for apple trees. This time of year, delicate pink and white blooms blanket branches, containing the hope of a big harvest this fall. To celebrate the start of a new apple crop, Hendersonville hosts Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend, April 25-28. More than 40 events throughout the weekend allow guests to tour cideries, meet winemakers, listen to live music, and indulge in special dinners at wineries and tasting rooms. After

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a successful first year, this second annual event adds an extra day with a ticketed kickoff gala. The opening gala on Thursday, April 25, provides a preview of

the weekend. Participating venues serve food and drink samples, and tickets will be available for upcoming events. Music and dancing set a festive tone. The

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gala takes place at the stately Horse Shoe Farm. Located on 85 acres along the French Broad River, the property offers lodging, venue space for both intimate and large events, and a spa. Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend allows visitors to explore the diversity found at Hendersonville’s cideries and wineries. Ciders vary from a dry European-style with Champagne-like bubbles to a slightly sweet easy-drinking beverage reminiscent of biting into an apple. And wines are as bold as an inky-dark merlot and as light and crisp as a dry rosé. Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards was the first commercial vineyard in Henderson County. The vines are located on land that has been in the same family for nine generations. The wines reflect that rich sense of place. Guided tastings showcase wines made from 14 varieties of French vinifera grapes. On Friday evening, Saint Paul throws a Twist & Shout Dance Party with music from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s. Then on Saturday 44

evening, guests participate in an interactive experience at Saint Paul’s second tasting room in nearby Flat Rock, where they prepare their own dinner using wine from the vineyard. Across the road from Saint Paul is the winery’s sister location, Appalachian Ridge Artisan Ciders.

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Cider is served in a 1940s barn that’s been converted into a tasting room. A spacious back porch overlooks the apple orchard. Appalachian Ridge invites visitors to start their Saturday or Sunday with a breakfast in the orchard, complete with coffee roasted onsite, cider mimosas, and biscuits and croissants served with local jams and jellies. After the meal, guests can see the farm on a guided tour. Saturday evening brings blues music, a giant pan of paella and fresh apple desserts. Across the county in the Mills River countryside, Bold Rock Hard Cider operates a stateof-the-art apple-pressing barn, production facility, tasting room and cider garden. The Virginiabased company opened its second location here in 2015 due to

the ready supply of fresh apples. Bold Rock is now the largest craft cidery in the country. The Be Bold Food Truck Festival, a hit at last year’s event, returns on Saturday. This all-day event includes food trucks from throughout the region, as well as Bold Rock’s own smokehouse truck. There will be live music on the outdoor stage and plenty of hard cider flowing. Hendersonville’s newest winery, Point Lookout Vineyards, adds a different beverage to the mix. In addition to its selection of European-style wines, Point Lookout produces mead, an ancient fermented beverage made from honey. On Friday, the vineyard will release its newest lineup of meads during its Highlands Festival. The event celebrates the ScotchIrish heritage of Western North Carolina with Celtic folk music, dancing and kilts. On Sunday, a Mountain Top Brunch makes the most of Point Lookout’s nearly 3,000-foot elevation with sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Throughout the afternoon, bluegrass and gospel groups perform on the lawn. Burntshirt Vineyards hosts live music, vineyard tours, wine tastings and food offerings all weekend at both its Hendersonville and Chimney Rock locations. The winery produces more than 20 estate-grown wines, varying from dry to sweet. Its apple wine blends six varieties of apples to create a slightly sweet porch sipper. In Hendersonville,

Burntshirt’s whimsical tasting room is surrounded by rolling vineyards, while in Chimney Rock, the tasting room and bistro look out upon the namesake rock and Hickory Nut Falls. Wine Sage & Gourmet, a specialty wine and culinary retail shop on Hendersonville’s Main Street, lends its expertise with local cider and wine tastings throughout the weekend. The tastings are free, and customers are welcome to shop a carefully curated collection of wines,

Don’t take the same old journey. Be somewhere genuine. Be somewhere amazing. Be changed.

playanydaygetawaycation Hendersonv

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CIDER WINE & DINE WEEKEND

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kitchen gadgets and cookbooks. Just down the street, Hendersonville’s Visitor Center is a one-stop-shop for experiencing apple country. Drop in for travel tips and advice from Hendersonville experts and an excellent selection of area maps and brochures. For more information about Cider, Wine & Dine Weekend and local lodging options, go to www.VisitHendersonvilleNC. org/Cider-Wine-Dine-Weekend or call (800) 828-4244.

8, 2019

April 25-2

800.828.4244

visithendersonvillenc.org

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide

LEISURE TRAVEL

Cruisin’ in 2019

Whether you have ventured on the seas or not, cruises still remain one of the most popular vacation getaways for most people. Maybe it’s the endless buffet and dancing, but here are some other things to consider if you’re cruising in the coming months:

otion Sickness – On board, you can feel M the motion of the seas. If you suffer from motion sickness, make sure you speak with your doctor for prescription medication, or arm yourself with over-the-counter medication, prior to boarding. Also, where you sleep can make a difference as well. According to Orbitz,”Book a room toward the center of the ship, preferably with a porthole or balcony. You can still feel the motion of the ocean, but the nausea and associated symptoms are worse if you have an interior room and can’t see the horizon. “ – www.orbitz.com

mall Accommodations - The rooms on S most cruise ships are pretty compact. So… if you need more room – book a cabin suite.

Get to port the night before – The Travel Channel suggests you get to your port city destination the day before to avoid rushing to get to the ship or even missing the boat entirely. Travel Channel’s advice: “Fly or drive into your port city the night before and you simultaneously bypass pre-departure jitters and add a day to your vacation. Check tourist boards for stay-and-cruise information” – www.travelchannel.com

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ook a port close to home – According B to Royal Caribbean, this is a perfect way not to be rushed to board. They say pick an embarkation port close to your home so you can drive and save on airfare costs. Royal Caribbean offers cruises from ports like New York, Baltimore, Galveston, New Orleans and San Juan. – https://www.cruisehive.com ack a night light – Carnival Cruise advises P you carry a night light when onboard the ship. Their advice is based on the fact that interior cabins do not have access to natural light. So…Carnival says switch to the lido or aft facing cameras to have a view of the deck. This camera will tell you when the sun is up. Pack a night light to light your path at night. – https://www.cruisehive.com ave fun! – Whether this H is your first cruise or 100th cruise, enjoy the high seas with family and friends. There are sure to be memories made.

Global Travel Tips International travel is now easier and more accessible than ever. it’s commonplace now to see people posting pictures on social media chronicling their adventures. for the first time international traveler to the experienced wanderer, there are still some key things to remember before traveling abroad: 1. Check your passport – Travel and Leisure says it’s important to look at your passport expiration dates, “The expiration date on your passport is actually a bit deceiving. The U.S. lets you use your passport up to the date inside the cover. However, several countries will deny travelers entry if the passport expires in less than six months. Why? If for some unexpected reason you get stuck overseas longer than planned, that country www.seenmagazine.us

wants to ensure that you have a valid passport to eventually travel back to the United States.” To avoid any problems, they suggest you renew your passport during a downtime in travel, about nine months prior to the expiration date. 2. Know the currency exchange rates – If you’re traveling abroad, it helps to know about how your US dollars translate in the country you’re visiting. Smarter Travel agrees. The blog says”knowing the cost of something in your own currency off the top of your head can save you from overspending simply because you don’t understand the price. (www.smartertravel.com)” The article also says by not knowing currency rates you leave yourself vulnerable to scammers and price gougers.

3. Be Safe – The US Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affair have a traveler’s checklist to follow, but the first bit of advice given by the department for international travelers is to adhere to all travel advisories and alerts. The department advises travelers to “Review entry/exit requirements, visas, local laws, customs, medical care, road safety, etc. Write down contact details for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to carry with you in case of emergency while traveling.” Wise choices. There are a ton of things to consider while packing to travel the world this summer. Wherever you land, just make sure to live in the moment and have a memorable experience.

SEEN Magazine | Spring/Summer Travel Guide