Visiting L.A.? Here are the Top Spots to Stay
As a travel blogger and L.A. resident, I am frequently asked, “Where is the best place to stay at in Los Angeles?” Well, the answer to this can often be hard. I say this because Los Angeles is one large area comprised of multiple cities and suburbs all waiting to be explored. So, when… Read More
Three Iconic Memphis Music Museums to Explore for Kids with Autism
When many people think of music in Tennessee, they instantly think of Nashville. Well, Nashville isn’t the only iconic place in Tennessee that has produced great music over the years. Memphis was and still is prominent in the music industry. In fact, many music legends like Elvis Presley and Issac Hayes started their careers in the… Read More
Must-Try Harry Potter Themed Foods and Drinks at Universal Studios Orlando
Everyone always makes a big ruckus over Harry Potter’s Butterbeer. Butterbeer is excellent, yes, but having visited Orlando’s Universal Studios, I must say that sampling the whimsical (and tasty) beverages and grub is a considerable part of any visitor’s experience. So, during our latest visit to the theme park last month we compiled our… Read More
Is the United MCO Red Carpet Lounge Family-Friendly?
Though more modest than many of its counterparts, the United MCO Red Carpet lounge offered a quiet and family friendly comfortable place to relax before our flight home to LAX. Last February I decided to try out the United MileagePlus® Club card by Chase. As part of its long list of perks it also gives its… Read More
Disney Coronado Springs Resort Tips for Families
The 1921 rooms Disney Coronado Springs Resort boasts a large convention center so it comes as no surprise it is a favorite with many conference participants. Furthermore, between its budget-friendly prices and unique resort amenities the property can be a good fit for most families. Disclosure: I was invited to attend the Disney Social Media… Read More
Residence Inn San Jose Cupertino caters to Autism Families
Located at 19429 Stevens Creek Blvd, Cupertino, CA, this brand new 180-room hotel does not disappoint. With spacious suites and proximity to local restaurants and stores, this property is perfect for those visiting the Silicon Valley. We stayed there last month and found it family friendly and comfortable for autism families. What Works for… Read More
Family Fun Stay at the Aloft San Francisco Airport
Recently we had the pleasure of staying at the funky, and upbeat Aloft San Francisco Airport hotel. Located at 401 E Millbrae Ave, Millbrae, CA the property is close to San Francisco’s Bayfront Park with secluded have walking paths and unobstructed views of planes landing and taking off. Furthermore, the family fun hotel with its… Read More
Family Luxury Stay at the Intercontinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco
Located at 999 California St., the Intercontinental Mark Hopkins Hotel is one of the two ‘Grande Dames’ properties along with its neighbor the San Francisco Fairmont. Perched on what some locals nicknamed “Nob Hill” the hotel is a member of Historic Hotels of America. If you want a quiet, classy hotel, family-friendly property close to the… Read More
Exploring Eataly Los Angeles with Autism
Imagine having the luxuries of an Italian market, dining venues, and cooking school all under one single roof. A place where patrons can enjoy Roman pizza, sip a glass of wine as they grocery shop and learn how to make homemade gelato. When I heard that Eataly opened a Los Angeles location, I knew my son,… Read More
Ten Must Try Disneyland Snacks
It is a fact that everyone loves a delicious snack. When visiting the parks with autism, buying snacks beats waiting in lines for busy restaurants. Snack Carts can make mealtimes quicker, not to mention cheaper than sit-down restaurants. Disneyland snacks vary from the traditional carnival variety to unique concussions created especially for the famous resort…. Read More
7 Ways to Enjoy Butterbeer at Universal Studios Orlando
For many die hard Harry Potter fans sampling Butterbeer is a must when visiting Universal Studios Orlando. What most don’t realize is that there are seven ways to drink and even eat butterbeer while visiting the parks. Kids and adults the world over still love the Harry Potter series, a story of witchcraft,… Read More
Five Iconic California Food Chains Worth Visiting
Travelers know California as the sunshine state with beaches and Hollywood celebrities. What some visitors miss is the fact it is also home to some excellent food chains. From juicy burgers to Cuban pastries the State features a formidable variety of venues. So, for the foodies among you wishing to bookmark new spots to try;… Read More
Is United Airlines Really Discriminating Against Autism?
It’s May 2015, and here we are yet again faced with a story about airlines and autism. In the past year, it seems that these stories have increased in number and taken on a life of their own. Contributing to the cause of this phenomenon is the media outlets’ exposure as well as the fact… Read More
Top 10 Features of a Good Hotel Executive Lounge
All executive hotel lounges are not created equal. Some offer plentiful food and beverage choices while some can be extremely bare bones, so unless the upgrade is free, it is wise for travelers to educate themselves on what to expect before making a decision to pay an additional fee. A good place to start is,… Read More
6 Life Lessons I’ve Learned From Autism
Everyone says that when you have a child, your life changes, and having a son with autism has certainly changed my life in ways I would never have expected. In fact, raising my son has taught me six important life lessons and skills that all parents should learn and pass on to their kids. Tolerance… Read More
Guide to Taking the Buquebus Ferry
Buquebus is a relatively inexpensive ferry that we took to go from Buenos Aires to Argentina to Montevideo in Uruguay, and was probably one of the most relaxing laid-back experiences we have had in years.The ferries run daily, and a trip on the early morning non-stop ferry takes about 3 hours, making it an excellent option for… Read More
Airline Safety Tips to Practice with Kids
Southwest Airlines’ emergency landing is a poignant reminder of what passengers need to know about airline safety. An aircraft en route to Dallas from New York landed in Philadephia after the explosion of one of its engines.Preliminary reports indicate the crew acted professionally and avoided a more significant scale disaster. Sadly a woman onboard did die from… Read More
Alaska Airlines Exceeds Expectations Despite a 2 Hour Delay
Last month I had to fly to San Jose for a family affair.After researching several options I booked an Alaska Airlines flight from Burbank Hollywood airport to San Jose California. Despite a two delay, I have to say the airline still managed to exceed my expectations. Booking process I debated whether I should fly… Read More
10 Favorite Literary Destinations for Kids with Autism
Did you know that you can easily introduce your kids to different cultures from all over the world? You can do this by reading books and watching movies. But what will make the story truly memorable is visiting the locations where the books take place. Though some parents do not think about literary destinations… Read More
Traveling with Kids? Useful Tips to Avoid Common Parasite Borne Illnesses
Everyone would agree vacations are fun. And when we return home, most of us are excited about bringing back souvenirs that remind us of the good times. But sometimes, we end up bringing back unwanted ones! From head lice to Lyme disease; here are our tips how to avoid common parasites borne illnesses when traveling… Read More
Sony WH1000XM3 Noise Canceling Headphones set is our new favorite at #BestBuy
When it comes to sensory challenges; noise definitely qualifies as one of the most significant problems facing our family. Crowded stores, malls, airports, crying babies on planes and even theme parks affect our son with autism. Noise is a huge stress factor that inadvertently leads to our son’s mood changes and meltdowns. So over… Read More
Monthly Movie Subscriptions for Families with Autism
Our son with autism is addicted to movies. It helps him relax pass the time and understand the world better. It also helps him socialize as he can go to the movies with friends without needing to chat too much or get awkward. However, movie tickets are pricey. They range from $10-20, depending… Read More
Favorite Highlights from L.A. #AUTFEST2018
Last April we attended #Autfest2018. The event took place in Beverly Hills, California. Similar to last year, this 2018 event included special screenings, discussion panels, photo opportunities and a closing VIP award ceremony. For those who missed it, here is a quick recap of our favorite highlights from L.A. #AUTFEST2018. What is #Autfest Celebrating autism awareness… Read More
Why You Need the Sandisk Extreme 1TB External Hard Drive #BestBuy
As a travel blogger, I take hundreds of photographs and video clips every month. So the thought of losing them has always been one of my greatest fears. And it did happen. Once. On a trip to Scandinavia and Russia back in 2008, my camera was stolen with the memory card inside. Two weeks… Read More
Q&A with Diego Pena Child Prodigy and Autism Author
Diego Pena was meeting all of his developmental milestones until the age of 18 months, when he suddenly stopped speaking, pointing, or responding to his own name. The family took Diego to their pediatrician for his regular checkup, where he received an official diagnosis of autism. After the diagnosis, Diego’s parents worked hard to ensure… Read More
Q&A with Doron Somer founder of AngelSense
A few months ago our family was introduced to AngelSense the unique GPS system that can help families with autism. As we tested out the product, we also had the pleasure of communicating with one of its founders, Doron Somer. So we were thrilled when Doron agreed to partake in a short interview and share… Read More
Six Reasons Why We Should All Celebrate Autism Awareness Month
April is Autism Awareness Month, as started by the Autism Society of America. Even though various minorities are celebrated throughout the year; some people don’t see the need to have an Autism Awareness Month.In fact, a few even go as far as to say unkind things about the very concept of having an Autism Awareness… Read More
Ron Sandison shares his Tips on Traveling with Autism
This month we had the opportunity to interview Ron Sandison, a professor of theology, motivational speaker, and writer about his tips on traveling with autism. Ron, who works full time in the medical field is an advisory board member of Autism Society Faith Initiative of Autism Society of American and The Art of Autism. Sandison has a… Read More
