9 minute read
Tips for Planning Winter Getaways
Winter occasions and celebrations equate to increased travel opportunities for many families to see destinations around the globe. Whether you’re planning a trip far from home or taking advantage of nearby attractions during a staycation, you can get more out of your adventures when you plan ahead. Consider these facts, figures and tips from the travel experts at Go City, a top attractions and experiences pass for city travelers.
Planning
Overall, Americans spend an average of 14 hours planning their getaway, the majority of which happens online or with the help of apps that provide booking information, directions, localized tips and more. In addition to deciding where to go and what to do once you get there, you may find planning ahead and checking restaurant reviews is especially helpful for those first hours after you arrive. Upon arrival, the first order of business for travelers is often refueling with a good meal, typically based on reviews they read before reaching their destination. Also research attractions and create a plan of things you’d like to do each day, even if you don’t follow it to the letter.
Remember, while many attractions and entertainment options provide flexibility, some should be booked in advance. Check individual websites for events, attractions and more to find details about booking and tickets, if required.
Destination
If you’re like many Americans, you may favor traveling to a place where the temperatures soar and you can soak up some sunshine. However, taking advantage of some typically warmer destinations outside of peak season can actually provide a way to avoid lines and enjoy a break from the heat. For example, locals in Orlando prefer to visit the area’s popular theme parks in the winter. Using an option like Go City can help you save and experience more to make your in- or offseason trip even better with access to Legoland Florida, Fun Spot America and Boggy Creek Airboat Tours.
The experience passes provide access to popular attractions in 30 major cities around the world such as New York, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Orlando, London, Bangkok, Barcelona, Dubai and more. Cancun is another hot spot; using the All-Inclusive Pass during the cooler months allows you to take advantage of one of the best times of the year to enjoy Xcaret at Night, along with the Cancun Scenic Tower. Other favorites among visitors include the Sky Wheel and parasailing adventures.
Packing
Smart packing is an often-overlooked secret to successful travel. Not only do you need enough attire for each day, you may also need extras to accommodate special activities or adjust to changing temperatures throughout the day and evening hours. The majority of Americans (63%) pack the night before a big trip but starting sooner can help ensure you don’t forget anything important. Starting a list well ahead of time can help you get a jump on your packing while saving the physical act of fitting everything into your luggage until closer to departure.
Excursions
Taking advantage of the unique activities and excursions is a smart way to immerse yourself and more fully experience the cities you visit. On average, Americans participate in five activities and excursions during a single trip; most of the time, those outings are planned from home as much as four weeks ahead of time, rather than upon arriving in the destination city.
If you’re planning to schedule excursions on your trip, explore resources like Go City, which can help you save up to 60% over gate admission prices. Passes can unlock the best a city has to offer, from bucket list attractions and top tours in the United States, such as Universal Studios, Sea World, Shedd Aquarium, Long Beach Aquarium and the Statue of Liberty, or abroad like the Vatican, the Eiffel Tower and more. There are also plenty of hidden gems and exclusive experiences such as a tour of Fenway Park, Texas Ranger Museum, Museum of Us, Coral Crater Adventure Park and even wine and cheese-making classes.
—Family Features, photos courtesy of Getty Images
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Make one, make them all. Join METC and the Book Arts Roundtable for this holiday paper craft workshop. Participants can create an accordion book with pockets and tags for the pockets, a card and tag making, a gift box made from playing cards, and a simple paper ornament. This workshop is best for 1st grade and up. Event is free, but pre-registration is required.
Saturday, December 10, 11am–1pm
Museum of Early Trades & Crafts Education Annex at METC, 23 Main Street, Madison app.donorview.com/zlboO
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Summit Area Old Guard: Come for the Programs. Stay for the Friends
The Summit Old Guard is a group of approximately 300 retired men from all walks of life. The Old Guard has been presenting programs every Tuesday since 1930 and continues to do so today. The programs are presented by representatives in their professions—doctors, engineers, etc.
The December programs will include a talk on the Colonization of Mars, Morris Habitat for Humanity and the war in Ukraine. All programs will be presented by experts in their respective fields.
In addition to their programs, The Summit Old Guard have many interest groups such as chess, math, technical, and more. Remote access is also available via ZOOM. For a monthly list of all programs and ZOOM access, email info@summitoldguard.org.
Tuesdays, 10-11:30am
New Providence Presbyterian Church 1307 Springfield Ave, New Providence www.summitoldguard.org
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Holiday Lights Spectacular at Turtle Back Zoo
Take a nighttime winter stroll through the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo this holiday season under the sparkling lights of more than 50 winter scenes and animal characters. Celebrate the season of giving by donating non-perishable food items, new toys, and gently used coats.
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo
560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange Free admission (donation recommended) 973-731-5800 www.turtlebackzoo.com
Meet & Greet with Santa
Add a visit with Santa to your holiday list! Meet & Greet is free and personal photos are allowed. Option to purchase professional photos on site. No appointments necessary.
December 9-11 & December 16-23, nightly, 5-8:30pm Location: Zoo Gazebo
Sea Lion Spectacular
Enjoy a Sea Lion feeding demonstration from the Sea Lion team.
Saturday & Sunday, December 10-11 Saturday & Sunday, December 17-18 Saturday, December 31 5:30-7pm Location: Sea Lion Sound
PRINCESS Holiday Weekend
Meet a Princess! Sing-a-long with popular princess characters. A mix of holiday songs (and princess songs) are sure to lift your holiday spirit!
Friday-Sunday, December 9-11 6 & 7:30pm Location: Zoo Main Entrance
Ice Sculpting Demonstrations
Limited Nights—Fridays in December. Watch a block of ice transform into an ice sculpture before your eyes. Take place during the Holiday Lights Spectacular event.
Fridays, December 9-30 | Starts at 6pm | Location: TBD
31st First Night Morris 2023
Where the Town Becomes a Stage…
First Night® Morris County is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization who seeks to foster the public’s appreciation of visual and performing arts through an innovative, diverse, and high-quality New Year’s Eve program which offers the community a shared cultural experience that is accessible and affordable to all. FNM365® is a Year-Round Community Development Program, dedicated to bringing the community together, not only for New Year’s Eve but all 365 days of the year.
The 2023 First Night® Morris County will feature more than 70 performances at 20 different venues (18 in-person, 1 live stream, and 1 On-Demand) with complimentary parking, free shuttles, 2 fireworks shows and additional On-Demand access.
First Night® Morris County began in 1992 and is the LARGEST First Night® in New Jersey, attracting nearly 10,000 participants each year. An alcohol-free and substance-free celebration of arts and culture, First Night® Morris County attracts families, seniors, singles, and anyone looking for an exciting way to ring in the New Year.
Saturday, December 31, 2022, 4:45-midnight | Sunday, January 1, 2023, On demand access through 4pm
Downtown Morristown | firstnightmorris.org
From Generation To Generation...
Three generations of our family have been serving the Jewish community for over 45 years. We are here for you in this difficult time and truly understand the need for services which preserve the memory and dignity of your loved one. We were here for you yesterday, we are here for you today, and will be here for you tomorrow. We welcome you to visit our newly renovated facility and meet our staff to discuss your needs now or to plan for the future.
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