After arriving in Tokyo by train yesterday and settling into our accommodation, today was all about easing into the magic. With Tokyo Disneyland on the cards tomorrow, we decided to have a more relaxed day exploring the area, scouting out Disney spots, and building the excitement step by step.

We began our day with a gentle stroll through a nearby park. It gave us a lovely breath of fresh air and a moment to slow down after yesterday’s travel. The girls had a good run around, which is always a bonus when you’re travelling with little legs that need to move.

Next up, we made our way to Ikspiari Disney’s colourful shopping and dining complex just outside the parks. It’s packed with Disney themed shops, unique merch, and heaps of energy. We scoped out all the stores, picked up a few fun bits, and mentally noted about a dozen things Georgia wants to come back for. Honestly, it’s hard not to get swept up in the magic even the grown ups were wide eyed, excitement filled the air!.

For lunch, we popped into the Rainforest Café, right inside Ikspiari. It’s a jungle themed restaurant that feels like something between a tropical holiday and a Disney animation complete with trumpeting elephants, moving gorillas, vines overhead, and the occasional indoor thunderstorm. Dotty was mesmerised scared and sometimes just confused, and Georgia couldn’t stop giggling when the gorilla roared during dinner. Food was good too hearty American style meals with kid friendly choices.

With full bellies and happy hearts, we decided to check out a movie at the United Cinemas across the way and luck was on our side. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was showing in English! Georgia was hooked from the very first frame, and even we thought it held up better than expected. Dotty sat through the whole thing like a total champ, she surprises us sometimes we had expected one of us would have had an early exit as is normally the case!

Resting Up for the Main Event

After a little wander to stretch our legs and a stop for snacks, we headed back to our accommodation for an early night. Tomorrow, we’re off to Tokyo Disneyland, and we all know that’s going to be a full on, joy filled, probably a bit emotional kind of day, well 2 days!.

We’re calling this day the calm before the Disney storm and what a beautiful, jungle-filled, movie watching calm it was.

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As our time in Europe come to an end, it’s surreal to look back at what we’ve experienced. Over the past 2 and a half months, we’ve visited 11 incredible countries, exploring everything from the charm of small villages to iconic cities. We’ve hiked, sledged, laughed (a lot), and even gotten a bit lost ultimately making memories as a family that will stay with us forever.

I also spent time creating tools to make travel easier and more enjoyable for us, And to that extent I’ve been working on a few exciting projects that have grown during this adventure:

• Make My Drive Fun App: This app has been a lifesaver on long drives, helping us discover hidden gems, scenic stops, and fun activities along the way. It’s turned “Are we there yet?” into “What’s next on the route?”

• Travel Planner Tool (Now in V2!): Thanks to incredible feedback, the planner now includes saved user history and persistent checkboxes, making it more seamless than ever. It’s designed to remember your preferences, so you can pick up right where you left off without missing a beat.

These tools started as experiments to help my family, but seeing how much value they’ve brought to others has been so rewarding. It’s proof that even on the road, you can innovate and build something meaningful.

Now, we’re gearing up for the next chapter. We’ll spend two weeks back in the UK, recharging, reflecting, and preparing for what’s next. Then, we’re off to South America a whole new adventure, with new landscapes to explore and stories to share.

As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you’ve got a favourite travel hack, tool, or app that’s helped you along the way, drop it in the comments, I’m always looking for inspiration!

Here are some pics that capture the last 2 and a half months. It’s been wild?!

Looking forward to new adventures, new challenges, and more creations to share.

Finally our Peru planning has started and it won’t be long till we touch down, so we will see you there, that should be epic and somewhat daunting.

#TravelWithAI #MakeMyDriveFun #FamilyAdventures #InnovationOnTheRoad

Learn more about Travel Tools!

Learn more about Travel Tools!

The post Our European leg has finished, 11 Countries and Epic Memories appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

Leaving behind the comfort of our last swim at Center Parcs Hochsauerland, we embarked on a journey towards Amsterdam. The drive was smooth, taking about three and a half hours, and by 4 PM, we arrived at our slightly quirky accommodation in Almere. Little did I know, this would be the start of an ongoing battle with a frozen stopcock. Three times I had to unfreeze it using boiling water—definitely not part of the plan, but it made for some memorable moments.

The next morning, we were up bright and early, eager to explore. A short ride on the Intercity commuter train whisked us to Amsterdam Central, but finding our way out of the station turned into a bit of an adventure. The ongoing construction created a labyrinth of detours, and it felt like every turn led us further away from the exit. Finally, we emerged into the city, greeted by a cold, grey sky and the unmistakable energy of Amsterdam.

Our first stop was a carousel-themed restaurant. It was warm, whimsical, and exactly what we needed to start the day. The girls loved the playful décor while we enjoyed a hearty early lunch to fuel up for what lay ahead.

From there, we strolled to one of Amsterdam’s bustling markets, home to over 250 stalls. Georgia was in her element, darting from one stall to the next, her eyes wide with excitement at the colourful displays of crafts, foods, and curiosities. Dotty, wrapped up warm, joined in the fun, fascinated by the buzz around her.

Ali had booked herself onto a city bike tour, so we split up. While she pedalled through the city, taking in its rich history and hidden gems, the girls and I headed to a nearby park. Despite the bitter cold, the girls couldn’t resist playing in the sand and riding the trikes. Their cheeks turned rosy, and their laughter echoed across the playground, a sweet reminder of how simple joys often make the best memories.

When we met up with Ali later, she was glowing (and shivering!) from her bike ride. She regaled us with stories of her tour, including the old city entrance with its historic prison—a stark but fascinating contrast to Amsterdam’s modern, vibrant streets. A round of steaming hot chocolates was just what we all needed to defrost and recharge.

As the sun set, we made our way to the highlight of the day: a boat trip for the Amsterdam Light Festival. Each year, the canals come alive with incredible light installations designed by artists from around the world. The theme this year was “Celebrating Life and Culture,” and the displays were nothing short of magical. Floating past glowing sculptures and illuminated bridges, we marvelled at how the city seemed to transform into a living, breathing art gallery.

The experience left us all in awe, but by the time we docked, the cold and the long day had caught up with us. We trudged back to the train and returned to Almere, finally getting in around 9 PM. Tired but happy, we reflected on a day filled with unexpected detours, stunning sights, and a fair share of quirky moments (I’m looking at you, frozen stopcock).

frozen stopcocks to glowing canals, Amsterdam gave us a day to remember. If you’re planning your own trip, don’t let a little cold weather stop you bundle up, explore, and enjoy the magic this city has to offer!

Stay tuned for more stories from our family travels.

Learn more about Amsterdam City Exploration!

Learn more about Amsterdam City Exploration!

The post Amsterdam, Discoveries and Quirks appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

Hochsauerland Family Adventure

Our three-day getaway to Centre Parcs Hochsauerland turned into four days of joy, thanks to the countless adventures, cosy moments, and experiences we had together as a family. From sledging in the snow to swimming in the Aqua Mundo water park, exploring the petting zoo, and even a surprise arcade win, this winter wonderland delivered memories we’ll treasure forever.

The Aqua Mundo water park quickly became the star of our stop. Swimming there was such a treat, with something for everyone. Georgia couldn’t get enough of the wave pool and slides, while Dotty loved splashing around in the toddler area, filled with fountains and shallow play zones perfect for her size.

The water slides were a favourite watching the Georgia racing down brought out the competitive side in all of us! For a moment of relaxation, we floated along the lazy river, soaking up the warm, tropical atmosphere while the snow glistened outside. We have already planned one last swim tomorrow morning before we leave.

Sledging was another big highlight of our stay. We rented sledges for €8 a day and spent hours on a snowy hill recommended by the friendly staff. Georgia raced down with fearless excitement, and Dotty, who started the trip with a snow phobia (despite having been in it a lot over the last few weeks), quickly warmed up to the idea of snowy fun. By the end of our stay, she was gleefully zooming down the hill with a big smile on her face.

The on-site petting zoo was another huge hit. Dotty and Georgia adored meeting the goats, sheep, and donkeys, and they loved being able to feed and pet them. Georgia was especially taken with the friendly goats, while Dotty was fascinated by the tractor. It was a peaceful experience, giving all of us a chance to connect with the animals and nature in a way they don’t often get to at home.

The arcade brought an unexpected moment of excitement when Georgia won a toy from the claw machine. Her excitement was over the top but it’s safe to say the arcade itself became a fun little break for us all.

We also made time for the Children’s ’ driving track, where Georgia and Dotty (with Ali driving) took the wheel of mini cars. Their giggles as they “drove” around (with a few hilarious bumps) is always a hit, for a couple of pounds well worth the cash..

Today’s schedule is packed with fun! We’re kicking off with bowling before heading back to Aqua Mundo for more waves, slides, and laughs. Afterward, we’re planning to finish the day with a game of mini-golf / the arcades and some ice cream.

As we prepare to head off on our next adventure, we couldn’t leave without one final trip to Aqua Mundo. It’s been the highlight of our stay, and one last splash today will be the perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable trip and we can pop in before we check out!

Check out our travel tips to help you plan your trip, and let us know your favourite Centre Parcs experiences in the comments below. Have you visited Hochsauerland? We’d love to hear your stories!

We love Centre Parcs Hochsauerland Getaway!

We love Hochsauerland Family Getaway!

We love Centre Parcs Hochsauerland Family Trip!

We love Hochsauerland Family Adventure!

The post Hochsauerland Family Adventure | Unforgettable Centre Parcs appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

As we said goodbye to Brno and hit the road to Prague, we reflected on a day packed with discovery and fun. Brno had impressed us with its castles and Christmas lights, but it was our visit to the VIDA! Science Centre that wrapped it up.

We weren’t sure what to expect from VIDA!, but it turned out to be a perfect way to spend the afternoon. Dotty was completely absorbed by the water table, playing with lock gates playing with the flow of water. Given her condition hands-on activities bring out her best smile, and this one really delivered.

Georgia, always curious, spent her time exploring exhibits on renewable energy and how wind power works. Watching her excitement as she pieced together how these things connect to everyday life was a bit of a proud parent moment for us. Ali and I even got stuck into a few of the activities ourselves (Ali sillily went in to a spinning machine and had to leave, she nearly passed out from labyrinthitis) even so there’s something about playing with science that makes you forget you’re supposed to be the grown up.

VIDA! Seems to sneak in education without making it feel like a lecture. We left feeling like we’d all learned something new while having fun at the same time.

Onward to Prague

The drive to Prague wasn’t long, and as we arrived, the city greeted us with its lively energy and busy roads. We’re staying just outside the centre, so it’s a short tram ride into the heart of the action. The kids are already looking forward to exploring tomorrow Georgia is determined to see Prague Castle, while Dotty will just be excited on the tram ride itself (it’s the little things that make her day).

For now, though, we’re settling in and getting ready for another full day of adventures. Brno gave us plenty of memorable moments, and we’re excited to see what Prague has in store.

Traveling as a family isn’t always smooth sailing, but it’s moments like today that make it all worthwhile. If you’re looking for tips, tricks, or just a bit of inspiration for your own family travels, check out our Travel Tips Page. We’re learning as we go, and we’d love to share what works (and what doesn’t) with you.

Learn more about Family travel adventures!

Learn more about Family travel adventures!

The post Goodbye Brno, Hello Prague: A Day of Science and New Adventures appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

Christmas Eve this year was nothing short of magical as we found ourselves surrounded by the picturesque winter wonderland of Slovenia. With a light dusting of about two inches of snow blanketing the ground, we decided it was the perfect opportunity to embrace the festive spirit and build a snowman together as a family.

The snow was soft and perfect for rolling, and Georgia was thrilled to get started. She eagerly helped shape the snowman, adding a splash of creativity with a bright red hat and a cosy pink scarf. Her excitement was infectious as she proudly stood next to our frosty friend once he was complete.

Dotty, however, wasn’t as enthusiastic about the snow. She found the clear path far more appealing than the soft, snowy patches. We couldn’t help but laugh as she watched us from her safe, snow-free zone, her curious yet cautious expressions adding a touch of humour to the day. While she didn’t get hands-on with the snowman, she seemed content observing all the action from the sidelines.

As for us, the joy of working together to create something so quintessentially Christmas brought warmth to the chilly afternoon. The experience was a beautiful reminder of why we embarked on this journey – to create special moments as a family in places we’ve never been before.

Slovenia’s serene, snow-covered landscape provided the perfect backdrop for this unforgettable day. It felt like something out of a storybook crisp winter air, laughter ringing out, and the sparkle of snow under the soft December light.

This Christmas Eve may not have been traditional for us, but it was certainly one to remember, currently watching the snowman on TV as I write this. We hope wherever you are, you’re finding your own moments of joy and magic this festive season.

Merry Christmas from all of us to you!

Learn more about Christmas in Slovenia!

Learn more about Christmas in Slovenia!

Learn more about Slovenian Christmas Experience!

Learn more about Slovenian Christmas Experience!

The post A Magical Christmas Eve: Building a Snowman in Slovenia appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

We started bright and early with one last swim to kick-start the day. After a quick breakfast and the usual game of “how do we fit everything in the car,” we were ready to hit the road. Excitement bubbled as we left the indoor pool behind (haha) and made our way from Croatia to the Slovenian hills.

On the way, we stopped at Westgate shopping centre to pick up a few Christmas essentials (feels like we never left Thanet) and, of course, stock up on some treats for the week ahead. The atmosphere was buzzing with holiday cheer, twinkling lights, festive music, and the bustle of people preparing for the season.

By the time we arrived at Villa Katarina, it was 6 PM, and the dark had already fallen over the hills. Even so, the lodge greeted us with its cozy charm, nestled quietly in the heart of the Slovenian countryside. With its rustic design and modern comforts, it felt like stepping into a Christmas card scene.

The lodge is perched in a spot that offers incredible views over the hills. We couldn’t see much in the dark, but the promise of waking up to such a stunning landscape had us all eager for the morning. The kids were thrilled to explore their new surroundings, and we immediately felt the warmth of this cosy villa.

Villa Katarina will be our base for the week, and it couldn’t be more perfect for a family Christmas. The fireplace crackles softly as I write this, and the lodge’s inviting atmosphere has already helped us unwind. Tomorrow, we’ll take our first full day to explore the area and enjoy the beauty Slovenia has to offer.

We can’t wait to see what the week has in store, hopefully some snow to complete the picture!

Stay tuned for updates as we celebrate Christmas in this magical Slovenian setting.

Learn more about Christmas in Slovenian Villa!

Learn more about Christmas in Slovenian Villa!

The post A Cozy Lodge the start of a Christmas Week in Slovenia appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

Our day started with a splash—literally! We spent the entire morning at Terme Jezerčica, diving into the pools, whizzing down the slides, and soaking in the amazing atmosphere of this family-friendly thermal retreat. Dotty, as always, stole the show with her adorable splashes, but all that fun tired her out, and she drifted off for a much-needed nap.

While Dotty rested, we enjoyed a relaxed lunch, refueling for the second half of our day. Then, with the promise of festive cheer, we headed to Zagreb’s famous Christmas markets. The air was filled with the scent of mulled wine, roasting chestnuts, and holiday joy as we wandered through the charming stalls. Georgia and Ali couldn’t resist another round of ice skating—our little pro was eager to show off her moves!

Afterwards, we warmed up with a cup of velvety smooth hot chocolate that tasted like Christmas in a cup thick smooth and moorish. For dinner, Ali tried the Mexican-inspired mac and cheese, which packed a delicious kick, while Georgia stuck to her classic favourite: good old mac and cheese. I, on the other hand, couldn’t resist the lure of a proper frankfurter a festive market treat.

With full stomachs, we soaked up the magic of the markets one last time, strolling past twinkling lights and festive decorations. But the adventure didn’t stop there. Sadly our train home was unexpectedly cancelled and relocated to a different platform. Unaware of the change, we ended up hopping on the wrong train!

Thankfully, it wasn’t long before we realised our mistake. At the next station, we switched to an old-fashioned “chugger” train that rattled and hummed its way back to our starting point. Eventually, we found the right train and then made it back home, albeit much later than planned.

Despite the detour, we arrived home happy, knackered, and already laughing about our unplanned train adventure. It’s these little moments the mix of magic and mishaps that make travel so memorable. Today was a day full of stories we’ll be telling for years to come.

And now, with tired feet and warm hearts, we’re ready to do it all again tomorrow. Stay tuned!

Learn more about Family Travel Experience!

Learn more about Family Travel Experience!

The post A Day of Winter Magic: Swimming, Christmas Markets, and an Unexpected Train Adventure appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

After an eventful day of rescuing elves (yes, really!), we made our way to a cozy apartment near Plitvice Lakes, booked through Booking.com. With the snow still blanketing the ground from the previous week, the entire area looked like a scene out of a winter fairytale.

The next morning, we set out to explore the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park. The hills dusted in snow made the emerald waters of the lakes shimmer even more beautifully. We strolled along the trails, marvelling at the cascading waterfalls and taking in the serenity of the surroundings. After some quality time soaking in the views, we grabbed a comforting hot chocolate while waiting for the boat that would ferry us across the lake. The short ride was peaceful and gave us a new perspective of the landscape before we hopped on a bus back to the starting point.

With Plitvice behind us, we hit the road again for our next stop: Camp Terme Jezerčica. After about two hours of driving, we arrived at the family-friendly resort, and Georgia’s eyes lit up the moment she spotted the indoor pool. It was nearly 5 PM, and while the outdoor waterpark was closed for the winter, the resort’s indoor offerings were more than enough to keep us entertained.

We quickly changed into our swim gear and headed to the pools, which included three indoor heated options, a dedicated kids’ area, and even indoor slides. The evening turned into a splash filled adventure with smiles, laughter, and fun for all of us. Georgia and Dotty couldn’t get enough of the slides, and even Ali and I found ourselves caught up in the fun.

By the end of the day, we were all feeling a bit knackered, understatement of the year! but it was well worth it. From snowy landscapes to poolside adventures. Now we’re ready for whatever tomorrow brings!

If you’re looking for a family-friendly escape with a mix of outdoor wonder and indoor fun, both Plitvice Lakes and Camp Terme Jezerčica should be on your travel list.

Tip:

• Visiting Plitvice Lakes in the snow is magical, but bring several warm layers and sturdy shoes for the trails.

Stay tuned for more of our adventures as we continue exploring this magical part of the world!

Learn more about Winter Wonderland Adventure!

Learn more about Winter Wonderland Adventure!

The post From Plitvice Snowy Lakes to Poolside Adventures appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

Dubrovnik never ceases to amaze, blending its rich history with unexpected delights. From exploring Game of Thrones filming locations to ice skating by the beach, Day 2 offered the perfect mix of fantasy, family fun, and adventure. Whether you’re a fan of epic TV dramas or just love discovering something unique, Dubrovnik seems to have it all.

Our day began with a journey through the iconic Old City, where we joined a Game of Thrones tour. Walking through these narrow, sunlit streets, it was easy to imagine being transported to Westeros. We stood at the gates of the Red Keep, retraced Cersei’s infamous “Walk of Shame” down the legendary steps, and heard fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from our guide (who was a shitless slave). Even without watching the show, the city’s medieval charm is enough to captivate anyone. But for fans like me, it was pure magic to see the locations brought to life.

After soaking in the fantasy world, we shifted gears and made a stop at a local play area. Georgia and Dotty were thrilled, burning off some energy as they ran and climbed, then we popped to a small cove where Geogia looked for sea glass (the best treasure). Their joy in these simple things reminds us why these little moments are just as important as the grand adventures.

Later in the afternoon, we decided to mix it up and caught a bus to a beach that promised a unique surprise an ice rink! Yes, ice skating by the Adriatic Sea. Georgia and I laced up our skates and spent 45 unforgettable minutes gliding (and occasionally wobbling) on the ice. It was such an amazing experience to enjoy a winter activity in this coastal paradise. For a moment, we forgot we were in sunny Croatia!

Once our legs were tired from skating, we took a peaceful walk down to the shore. The beach was serene, the waves lapping gently as we strolled along the beach. Rounding the corner, we discovered even more hidden beauty rugged cliffs meeting the clear blue waters, framed by the soft light of the late afternoon. It was the perfect way to wind down after such an eventful day where Georgia spotted Fish, Starfish and Sea Urchins in the clear water from the edge.

Dubrovnik is a city that offers surprises at every turn, blending history, nature, and family-friendly fun in ways you might not expect.

Thinking of visiting Dubrovnik? Don’t just stick to the old city walls. Dive into the unexpected! Take a Game of Thrones tour to see where fantasy meets reality, let the kids run free in a local play area, and, if the season is right, try something completely out of the ordinary like ice skating by the beach.

What’s your perfect mix of adventure and relaxation? Let us know in the comments or share your favourite family travel moments!

Learn more about Dubrovnik Adventure!

Learn more about Dubrovnik Adventure!

The post From Westeros to Winter Magic: A Perfect Family Day in Dubrovnik – Day 2 appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.