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.

The post A Day of Disney Build-Up & Jungle Vibes in Tokyo 🌸 appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

On the Road to Paracas

And just like that, we’ve left Lima’s chaos behind! One minute it’s towering buildings and traffic madness, the next shanty towns, endless dunes, and stretches of pure desert. Peru doesn’t mess around when it comes to sudden scenery changes!

We’re driving down the Panamericana Sur, heading for Paracas, where tomorrow morning we’ll be hopping on a boat to the Ballestas Islands. Sea lions? Penguins? Dolphins? Who knows, If the ocean’s in a good mood, we might just spot some!

For now, we’re soaking up the view dusty roads, random roadside markets, and the occasional giant chicken statue (seriously, Peru loves those ).

On route we stopped at Chincha, Hacienda San José is a stunning 17th-century colonial mansion with an eerie history hidden beneath it miles of tunnels were used to smuggle enslaved Africans inland, avoiding Spanish taxes and authorities. Hacienda San José shows a glimpse into Peru’s complex history.

Next stop: desert adventures, ocean breezes, and maybe a wild dune buggy ride if not this week maybe next.!

Stay tuned for the next chapter—this one’s gonna be fun! #LimaToParacas #DesertVibes #DolphinWatch #RoadTripPeru

The post City Lights to Desert Nights –On the Road to Paracas! 🚐 appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

Overland Adventure through Peru & Bolivia

It’s happening, on Monday, we’re flying into Peru! After weeks of planning, navigating a maze of flights, and working out the logistics of overland travel through two countries, we’re finally set. And rather than zipping through on quick flights, we’re taking the scenic (and slightly chaotic) route traveling overland from Lima to La Paz, Bolivia, and then looping back up to Cusco, Peru.

We’re following the famous Gringo Trail, a well worn backpacker route through the best of Peru and Bolivia, taking buses through deserts, mountains, lakes, and ancient ruins. This means long rides, overnight buses, and the kind of slow travel that lets us truly see the country.

First Stop: Lima (4 Nights)

We’re kicking things off in Lima, spending a few days exploring the coastal cliffs of Miraflores, the historic centre, and most importantly food. Lima is the culinary capital of South America, and we’re ready to eat our way through it, especially after 2 flights to get there, Expect a lot of ceviche, empanadas, and anything that pairs well with a Pisco Sour.

Then, the real adventure begins.

The Route: Lima → La Paz → Cusco

We’re heading south, crossing into Bolivia, and then looping back into Peru because why take the easy way when we can make things even more complicated? Here’s what the journey looks like:

Peru: Lima → Puno

• Lima → Paracas – A small coastal town known for the Ballestas Islands, aka Peru’s version of the Galápagos. Seals, penguins, and dramatic cliffs.

• Paracas → Huacachina – A desert oasis surrounded by massive sand dunes, where we’ll be sandboarding and riding dune buggies like maniacs.

• Huacachina → Nazca – Famous for the mysterious Nazca Lines, massive ancient geoglyphs carved into the desert. Flying over them is an option, but so is the viewing tower (for those of us who prefer solid ground).

• Nazca → Arequipa (Overnight Bus) – This is our first big overnight journey, arriving in Arequipa, the “White City”, home to colonial streets, volcano views, and our first real taste of high altitude.

• Arequipa → Puno (Lake Titicaca) – Our final Peruvian stop before Bolivia, where we’ll visit Lake Titicaca and the floating Uros Islands.

Bolivia: Puno → La Paz

• Puno → Copacabana (Bolivia) – We’ll cross the border into Bolivia (which should be an adventure in itself) and stop in Copacabana, a lakeside town where we’ll take a boat trip to Isla del Sol, the supposed birthplace of the Inca civilization.

• Copacabana → La Paz – Bolivia’s high-altitude capital, where we’ll ride the city’s famous cable cars, explore the witches’ markets, and maybe even check out Death Road (if we’re feeling particularly brave).

Back to Peru: La Paz → Cusco

• La Paz → Cusco (Overnight Bus) – One final overnight haul through the Andes before we cross back into Peru and arrive in Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire.

• Cusco → Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu – The grand finale! Exploring the Sacred Valley, trekking (or training) to Machu Picchu, and soaking up every last bit of Incan history.

Why This Route?

Because this is the way to actually experience Peru and Bolivia. Sure, we could just fly between the big cities, but we’d miss everything in between. The unexpected roadside stops, the random markets, the crazy landscapes we’d never see from a plane.

Yes, it’s going to be long, we will break the journey up staying at locations for a few days each, but there will be overnight buses, early mornings, and a lot of hours staring out of bus windows. there will also be deserts, mountains, ancient ruins, lakes, wildlife, and experiences we couldn’t get any other way.

This one’s going to be big. From racing through the dunes in Huacachina to crossing the Bolivian border, overnight buses through the Andes to standing at Machu Picchu, we’ll be sharing every part of it.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to overland through South America, stick with us and ill let you know, I’ll also let you know how the kids get on too!

Peru, Bolivia, we’re on our way!

Overland Adventure through Peru & Bolivia!

The post Peru & Bolivia – The Long Road to Adventure appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

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.

Ghent, Belgium, is a city that seamlessly combines historic charm with vibrant modern life. We explored its beautiful streets, soaked up the atmosphere, and indulged in some of the country’s most iconic foods. It’s a place that left a lasting impression on us and one we’d gladly return to.

Our day began with a tram ride into Ghent’s city centre. The grandeur of the place was immediately evident. Towering churches and cathedrals dominated the skyline, each with its own unique story and architectural style. St. Bavo’s Cathedral, home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece, was a standout. Its intricate artwork and peaceful interior were a reminder of the city’s rich history and artistic heritage.

We strolled through the cobbled streets, taking in the sights and sounds. Boat trips along the canals were available, offering a different perspective on the city, but the brisk weather made us decide to explore on foot instead.

By midday, we were ready for some classic Belgian comfort food. We couldn’t pass up the chance to try frites, Belgium’s famous chips. Served hot and crispy, they came with a range of toppings. While the exact name of the sauce we tried escapes us, it was a rich and savoury addition that elevated the already delicious dish. It was a simple yet satisfying meal I had stripped beef for mine which was amazing.

After more looking around the town later In the afternoon, we treated ourselves to freshly made Belgian waffles. Crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, they were topped with chocolate and whipped cream just the right balance of sweetness to keep us going.

We also took some time to pop into the many shops scattered throughout the city centre. From local boutiques to charming bookstores, there was no shortage of interesting finds. The historic surroundings and vibrant shopfronts made for a pleasant way to see the city..

Ghent is a city that has something for everyone. Its historic landmarks, friendly atmosphere, and delicious food that simply make it a destination worth visiting. While the chilly weather kept us from exploring everything, it gives us a reason to return. Next time, we would be sure to take that boat trip and delve even deeper into what this city has to offer.

Learn more about Exploring Ghent’s Charm!

Learn more about Exploring Ghent’s Charm!

The post The Charm, Sights and Delights of Ghent, Belgium 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.

Leaving Prague was bittersweet, this city never fails to charm. Before we set off, we had one last adventure at Prague Castle. Navigating the roads there was an experience unsure whether it was our turn or the trams’, we managed to make it through with a bit of improvisation.

The castle itself? Simply stunning after looking around Ali and Georgia ventured up the bell tower of St. Vitus Cathedral, soaking in the views that I’m told were breathtaking views. Meanwhile, Dotty and I embraced a more grounded approach, enjoying a slice of cake and some coffee (juice for her, of course) in the courtyard café, marvelling at the grandeur around us.

Upon reflection it’s clear to say that Prague truly leaves you wanting more, with its cobblestone streets, majestic landmarks, and the bustling vibe of a city that feels alive in every corner. The weather was peculiar today, very hot as we drove away it was still hovering around 11 or 12 degrees, not the – we had been accustomed to over the last few weeks, it felt surprisingly warm for January. But what awaited us in Klínovec was a different world entirely.

We arrived around 4 PM to heavy rain and 7 degrees there was remnants of snow from previous weeks, now very slushy and wet. After unpacking, I took a quick trip across the border into Germany to pick up some dinner (the nearest supermarket). The drive through the hills was surreal, with thick fog clinging to the slopes, making the whole scene feel straight out of a movie I didn’t even see the border checkpoint (typically they are unmanned but not always)

Anyhow, by the time I returned and got the kids to bed, winter had fully reasserted itself. Glancing out the window, I saw two inches of fresh snow already blanketing the ground and I was glad I went shopping before putting kids to bed!. By the morning, that had doubled to five inches. Klínovec has no intention of letting the snow go away, with daytime temperatures predicted to linger at -5°C for the week ahead.

Tomorrow might just call for a classic winter adventure so I’ll be looking to rent a toboggan or sledge for some fun in the hills. Here’s to embracing the frosty charm of this beautiful region!

Learn more about Prague to Klínovec Adventure!

Learn more about Prague to Klínovec Adventure!

Learn more about Prague to Klínovec Adventure!

Learn more about Prague to Klínovec Adventure!

The post Prague to Klínovec a contrasting adventure appeared first on Tantrumming Trailblazers.

Have you ever been on a long drive and wondered, “What cool things am I missing along the way?” Well, that’s where TantrummingTrailblazers custom “Make My Drive Fun” comes in! Whether you’re after hidden gems, family-friendly pit stops, or the best coffee shops en route, we’ve got you covered.

With our FREE easy-to-use route planner, you can:

Find fun stops along your exact route.

Discover nearby attractions, rest stops, and scenic views.

Plan toilet breaks or grab a quick bite with the family.

Customise your search for what you want to see!

But here’s the thing…

Due to an overwhelming amount of bot spam (blame the tech gremlins), we’ve had to make this exclusive FREE tool available to registered users only. We value your experience, and this change helps ensure that real travellers like YOU to enjoy seamless access without interference.

Sign up to unlock Make My Drive Fun and make every journey unforgettable.

Registration is free, quick, and easy plus, as a member, you’ll get access to updates, tips, and exciting new AI features we’re rolling out soon!

Don’t let the bots ruin your adventure—join our community today!

Sign Up & Start Planning

Your next adventure is literally just a click away!

The post Turn Every Drive Into an Adventure!💡🚗 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.