06 June 2025

Travelling with my husband and our two kids means juggling everyone’s interests and energy levels—but our recent Florida trip was a perfect blend of thrills, learning, beach time, and road trip adventures that we all loved. From spending a full week at Universal Orlando’s Sapphire Falls Resort, diving into water fun at Volcano Bay, squeezing in a couple of magical days at Disney’s Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios, exploring the Kennedy Space Centre, and then hitting the road to Miami and the Florida Keys — it was a trip packed with unforgettable memories. We started with a whole week at Universal’s Sapphire Falls Resort, which turned out to be the perfect family base. The resort’s laid-back Caribbean vibe was a refreshing retreat after long park days, and the kids couldn’t get enough of the huge pool with waterfalls and water slides. Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure were nonstop excitement. Our kids were thrilled to explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, running between Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade, sipping butterbeer, and riding Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey multiple times. Meanwhile, my husband and I loved the mix of classic movie-themed rides and big roller coasters like the Incredible Hulk and Jurassic World VelociCoaster. We had an action packed day at Volcano Bay, Universal’s water park. We spent hours sliding down twisting water slides, floating the lazy river, and jumping into the wave pool. The kids especially loved the kid-friendly splash zones, while the adults appreciated the swim-up bars and relaxing cabanas. It was the perfect way to cool off after the busy theme park days. Having a whole week allowed us to take it slow—no rushing, plenty of breaks, and lots of time for poolside chilling. Even though we’ve done Disney a few times before, we couldn’t resist spending a couple of days there while we were in Orlando. Walking down Main Street USA with the castle towering ahead never gets old. We hit all the family favourites like It’s a Small World, Peter Pan’s Flight, and Pirate's of the Caribbean. The kids were over the moon meeting Mickey and friends, and the parade was a highlight that had all of us clapping and dancing along. Ending the day with the spectacular fireworks show was pure magic and an emotional moment for the whole family. The next day, we explored Hollywood Studios, which felt like a whole different world. The kids were starstruck by Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, exploring the Millennium Falcon and trying the interactive rides. We loved the mix of thrilling rides and live shows, and it was great to revisit Disney with a bit more grown-up appreciation while still seeing the wonder through the kids’ eyes. After the excitement of the parks, we headed east to the Kennedy Space Centre for a completely different kind of adventure. The kids were fascinated from the moment we stepped inside—the giant Saturn V rocket hanging overhead was awe-inspiring. We spent hours exploring hands-on exhibits, watching documentaries about space exploration, and walking through the shuttle launch experience simulator that made us all feel like astronauts blasting off. Meeting a real astronaut and hearing about life in space was unforgettable for the whole family. It was a perfect mix of fun and education that sparked all our imaginations. Next, we hit the road for Miami and stayed two nights at the Palm Hotel in South Beach. The hotel had a great pool and was just a short walk to the beach, which kept the kids happy and active while we soaked up the city’s unique energy. We wandered Ocean Drive’s colourful streets, enjoyed fresh seafood dinners at waterfront restaurants, and took time to explore the Wynwood Walls—a vibrant outdoor gallery with incredible street art that made for some awesome family photo ops. The kids loved sampling different ice cream flavours from local shops, and the sunsets on the beach were some of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen. From Miami, we drove down the stunning Overseas Highway to Key West, a highlight of the trip. The kids were amazed driving over so many bridges with water on both sides, and we stopped often just to soak in the views. At Parrot Key Resort, where we stayed for four nights, we found the perfect family-friendly tropical hideaway. The multiple pools and laid-back vibe meant the kids had plenty of space to run around and swim, while we enjoyed relaxing by the water and sipping cocktails. One of the highlights was the sunset dolphin-watching cruise. Cruising along the calm waters as the sun dipped low, the sky turned fiery orange and pink, creating the most stunning backdrop. Dolphins kept popping up alongside the boat, leaping and playing right in front of us. Watching the sun set over the ocean while surrounded by playful dolphins was one of those unforgettable moments you wish you could freeze in time. We also toured the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, which was surprisingly fun for the kids, especially spotting the famous six-toed cats. And, of course, we made the classic stop at the Southernmost Point buoy, the southernmost tip of the continental USA, a must for a selfie! After Key West, we headed back up the Keys to spend five peaceful nights at Isla Bella Resort. This was the perfect way to wind down after all the excitement. The resort’s white sandy beaches and calm turquoise waters were ideal for family beach days filled with kayaking and paddleboarding. We also spent some quality family time playing football on the lawn and challenging each other to chess games—perfect for those relaxing moments together. One afternoon, we took a quiet boat ride nearby to observe manatees in their natural habitat, which was a magical experience for all of us. Evenings were slow and relaxing, with stunning sunsets and dinners by the water. The kids loved chasing crabs on the beach, and the whole family soaked in the peaceful vibe. This trip was a perfect mix of action, discovery, and relaxation, made even more special by sharing it with my husband and our two kids. From our week at Sapphire Falls and splashy fun at Volcano Bay, to magical moments at Disney’s Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios, inspiring space adventures, and road tripping through Miami and the Keys—Florida really has something for everyone. If you want help with family-friendly itineraries, packing lists, or tips for visiting Florida with kids, just let me know—I’m happy to share what I’ve learned!

06 June 2025

From Venice to Paris on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express: A Journey of a Lifetime with My Mum There are some travel experiences you think about for years, imagining every little moment. The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express was that for me, ever since I was 12 when I first read "Murder on the Orient Express", I’d seen photos, watched documentaries, even daydreamed about what I’d wear to dinner. But nothing compared to actually stepping onto that train — especially with my mum by my side. What made it even better? Starting off with a two-night stay in Venice at the most elegant hotel in Venice. Before our train journey began, we spent two nights at the Baglioni Hotel Luna, which couldn’t have been more perfect. The hotel is tucked just around the corner from St. Mark’s Square, with its own private dock on a peaceful canal. From the moment we stepped inside, it felt like we had entered a quiet, opulent world. Think marble floors, gold-leaf ceilings, Murano chandeliers, and that unmistakable Venetian elegance. Our room was beautifully decorated with classic touches — ornate headboards, rich fabrics, and tall windows that opened up to the canal. Each morning, we had breakfast in a grand room covered in ceiling frescoes, drinking espresso from fine china and eating buttery pastries like royalty. During the day, we wandered the city at a relaxed pace. No itinerary, just walking, getting lost (as one does in Venice), eating cicchetti at little bacari, and soaking up the soft light bouncing off the canals. Mum and I kept saying how glad we were that we’d added those two nights — it gave us time to slow down and feel present before the next big adventure. The morning we left for Paris, a classic wooden water taxi picked us up from the hotel’s dock. I can’t even describe how iconic it felt — Venice slowly drifting by in the morning light, the hum of the engine, the wind in our hair, and that bittersweet feeling of leaving but heading somewhere incredible. Santa Lucia Station is surprisingly modest for such a grand departure, but once we arrived at the platform, everything changed. There it was: the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, lined up in gleaming navy and gold. Staff in tailored uniforms stood beside the carriages, welcoming passengers one by one as we stepped off the red carpet and on to the train. It honestly felt like we’d stepped onto a movie set. We were met by our cabin steward, who guided us to our sleeping compartment — a gorgeous space with polished wood panelling, a velvet bench, embroidered cushions, vintage reading lights, and a little fold-down basin tucked behind the panelling, complete with luxurious French toiletries. Every detail felt carefully preserved, from the luggage rack to the crystal water carafe on the side table. We settled in with Veuve Clicquot, finest Belgium chocolates and biscuits, and then just watched the train roll away from Venice. The views of the Italian countryside through those cinematic windows were stunning — green fields, sleepy villages, and eventually the dramatic scenery of the Dolomites as we moved north. Lunch was our first formal meal on board, and it completely set the tone for what was to come. The setting was pure art deco glamour—crisp white linens, cut crystal glasses, polished silver, and attentive service. We started with a delicate vegetable terrine followed by a roasted chicken breast with wild mushrooms and tarragon sauce. The flavours were subtle, beautifully balanced, and paired with a lovely white wine. Dessert was a vanilla panna cotta with poached pears. Every course was timed perfectly. We lingered over coffee as the Dolomites came into view. It felt like the world outside was rushing past, but inside, everything had slowed down. As the train picked up speed, we changed for dinner. Getting dressed up felt like part of the ritual — everyone puts in the effort. Mum wore a silk dress and I went for a bejewelled art deco gown with heels. It’s not about being overly formal, but about honouring the moment. It felt incredibly special. The dining car was breath taking: white tablecloths, sparkling cutlery, art deco lamps, polished wood panelling. We were served a multi-course meal that honestly rivalled any fine dining experience I’ve had — an amuse-bouche, followed by seared scallops, perfectly cooked lamb, and a rich dark chocolate tart. Each dish was paired with wine, and the sommelier was happy to chat us through the choices. After dinner, we wandered to the bar car, which had a pianist playing softly in the background. It felt warm, social, and a little surreal. Mum sipped a negroni while I had a classic French 75. People were laughing softly, sharing stories of past trips, or just sitting back and soaking in the atmosphere. It wasn’t loud or flashy — just quietly glamorous. When we returned to our cabin, it had been transformed into a sleeping compartment with bunk beds made up with crisp sheets, thick blankets, and a chocolate on each pillow. I lay in the upper bunk, the lights dimmed, listening to the soft rattle of the train as it wound its way through the Alps. Outside, snow-dusted mountains glowed in the moonlight. Inside, it was warm and still. Mum as we fell asleep to the gentle rhythm of the rails. Morning in France I woke up just as the sky was turning pale grey. A soft knock on the door meant breakfast had arrived: fresh croissants, warm rolls, jam, fruit, coffee and juice — all served on a table by the window, eating as the French countryside rolled past. Small towns, golden fields, distant church spires — it felt peaceful and unreal, like time had slowed down. Arrival in Paris By late morning, we were pulling into Gare de l'Est in Paris. As we stepped off the train, I felt a mix of excitement and sadness. We were in Paris, yes — but our time on the train was over. Final Thoughts This journey was more than I expected. It wasn’t just about getting from Venice to Paris — it was about the in-between. The slowness, the beauty, the quiet moments with my mum, the attention to detail, the joy of being present. Travelling on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express isn’t just a luxury trip. It’s a return to the kind of travel that means something. It’s storytelling, nostalgia, elegance — and the gift of time well spent. If you’re thinking of doing it, I can’t recommend it enough. Go with someone special. Dress up. Put your phone away. And just enjoy the ride!