Luv this video . I tried your last recommendation and went to la cantera. I luv that place especially in the fall when there isn’t as many people. Did you like the spa there better?
I used a packing cube for a work trip because of your suggestion. Loved having my clothes all bundled up and not loose in my suitcase. Thank you! Great tips
As someone who has a family member with an inflammatory bowel disease, I find it very difficult to share a room with only 1 bathroom. Hopefully this means Shane’s disease is relatively controlled because otherwise, 1 bathroom is difficult.
Marnie Goldberg That’s wonderful for Shane and I hope it continues, but I’m wondering why his dr won’t let him fly. How does flying affect his UC if he’s in remission? My loved one’s GI has never given him a flying restriction even when he’s been in remission. This baffles me.
It's not that he won't let him fly, but one of the drugs he's still taking is an immuno-supressant, so it's best to limit flying or spending long periods of time breathing in recycled air.
Marnie Goldberg interesting. Having ppl on immunosuppressants for literally decades, we’ve never had a restriction, flights both to Europe and Asia included. Different GIs, different ideas.
So helpful! Never thought about doing the resort club option. And I loved your suit! I ordered joggers and the same suit the next day 🤣 you’re right! It does suck you in all the right places.
Thanks for sharing your tips. We have done the resort club option whenever it is available specially at high end resorts. The restaurants at Atlantis in the Bahamas are particularly exorbitant, and we are a family of five so we upgrade to the clubhouse option there. What we have been doing over the past eight years is to rent a condo/vacation home within the resort. We love doing this mainly because with three kids a traditional resort room is just not enough space. We love to stretch out and we usually get a three bedroom condo with fully stocked kitchen and washer/dryer. We ALWAYS do this at Disney World. Since we rent a condo/vacation home, as soon as we arrive, I hit the nearby supermarket to stock up for breakfast food items and snacks. We do breakfast in the condo, lunch and dinner out, but sometimes we like to actually cook dinner in the condo as well which is fun for us. We much prefer the condo/vacation home option and we get to do our laundry before we head home which is yet another perk.
Great tips! I've not stayed at many resorts, but after hearing your suggestions, can definitely see the benefit in it. I did stay at Lost Pines a few years back for a work trip and it was a fabulous place! Thanks to you, I think it will make the short list when we plan our next vacation. Cheers!
We love staying at resorts too! We’ve stayed at some great Hyatt resorts. Sounds like you guys had a great time. Do you still do one room for all four of you?
We do for now. Not sure if that's going to continue for much longer, which will be a shame, since we have so much fun hanging out at night watching silly tv shows!
TFS, Marnie! Love your channel and your wonderfully witty personality. Your advice about the club upgrade is the best! We discovered it years ago when an airline canceled our flight until the NEXT day but comped us a night at an airport hotel with Club privileges. Have paid for it several times since but have also been lucky to have it offered as a comp twice at close-to-home resort we splurge on every few years. Best, Marbs💕
All great advice! It totally pays to be organized right down to all of the activities which should, if possible, be scheduled before arriving at your destination. They can certainly dictate your vacation schedule.
This was really helpful! We have a two year old son now so our days of trekking through Asia etc are probably done for a while. We like to rent a condo by the beach usually or do an all inclusive at a resort otherwise I spend the time getting worried about how much money we’re spending (my own fault but I can’t help it!)
Marnie, I love your topical videos that can easily be referenced in the future! Sometimes when you share ideas within your vlogs, it can be hard to find it again later if I want to revisit the info. As a long time viewer, it was obvious to me that this was your intent. I wish the TH-cam world would be less cynical and think that everyone is selling their soul to marketers. I hope your newer viewers will find over time that you are incredibly honest, forthright on your sponsorships/ affiliates and give great personal advice. There is a reason you have reached 100,000 viewers and it was not just by creating a few viral videos, but building character based friendships over many years. (I reposted this comment in your general video feed, because I felt like it will be lost as a reply.)
Thank you for being one of the few who understood why I made this video (and this type)! Your words mean so much to me, as does your friendship-we are WAY overdue for a get together!
Marnie Goldberg Wow, glad it works for you all. It would not work for us and my kids are younger than yours. The only way we do family vacations is by renting a condo or a room with a connecting bedroom though I know that is not always feasible for some people. As far as resort food expense, when my kids were younger and we would go to Disney, we always purchased the dining packages. Yes, you pay more, but it was worth it for us...or we just do all-inclusive resorts outside of the US.
We purchased the Club Level at a Disney Resort last year and it was terrific. We packed little mini sandwiches from breakfast ingredients for lunches and saved so much money during the day at the park.
Great video! I love hearing your trip recaps! They are very helpful in giving practical tips I wouldn't really think about otherwise! Also, your hair looks great in this video!
The boys didn't get their own room? So nice that you all stayed together! Tfs your wonderful trip. We love the Hyatt Residences. Always stay at the one on Siesta Key beach, when it isn't red tide of course. ☺
That club level tip is so smart. We did a "staycation" at the Houstonian a couple years ago and did that for the first time. Just hubby and I but we barely ate anything else. I think we got room service once in 4 nights and lunch the one time we ventured out of the hotel. It's also great to have a second semi private lounge space. Hotel lobbies can get really busy and hotel rooms start feeling claustrophobic so that was great when I wanted someplace different to stretch out and read for a bit with easy access to snacks and a soda. I'll be looking into Lost Pines. How was the spa? I was starting to look for someplace within a few hour drive for another trip when we celebrate his chemo finishing next year.. this place sounds fun!
My husband & I spent our 25th anniversary in Palm Desert, CA in Nov and absolutely loved the resort. The Marriott Shadow Ridge Resort is absolutely beautiful & full of amenities as well as a world-class golf course. We are planning another trip simply as a l.o.n.g. weekend. We live near Chicago, so it's a hike for a long weekend but so worth it. We find that we prefer to put the bulk of our spending into where we stay. Other than sights, our hotel is the #1 priority of our getaways. Thanks for the great review & debrief!
Great tips! Several years ago I stayed 10 days, at a resort, off season; so, it was already discounted. They had an 'entertainment/education' night; so, my friend and I negotiated an additional discount in exchange for each of us giving a presentation in our area of expertise.
I loved hearing about your vacation. It's nice to see you glowing thinking about it. Everyone says teenagers don't hangout with their families, you prove that wrong.
I am a kayaker and find the best thing to wear is a bottom bathing suit with quick dry shorts and tank top. So comfortable and don't forget a visor or hat. Sounds like you had a great family vacation!
I'm so glad it was a great vacation for you and your family! I love these debriefings. Very informative. And girl, you rock that turquoise bathing suit! xo ~ linda
Hi, Marnie :) We love the LPHyatt and have been there numerous times. Will have to go back and try club level. Great idea! Love the debrief blog idea. Thanks for the video!
These are awesome tips! I think we will look for a club level service next time we go to a resort, more variety and probably cheaper than room service. Thanks for sharing your vacation photos, such a good looking family, and the family bonding time is so important!
I agree staying club level actually saves money. I have two teen boys and a hubby who likes his beer in the pm, so the club level more then pays for itself! I also agree with zip lining, better to wear more clothing because of all the harness. I will say that resort looks stunning, I will have to check it out for a family vacation with my boys and hubby.
Great video Marnie, very helpful. What a great vacation idea and definitely the kind I like with lots of family time. We did this type of vacation quite often and miss them now that my kids are older💕
Nice to know what others take (helpful hints) going on vacations. I try to pack cotton sun dresses, capris and a few tops. We stay at resorts that have a kitchen so we can prepare our food and maybe have one meal out everyday. Loved your video Marnie.
Love, love, love active vacations...can’t get enough kayaking, zip lining. hiking, exploring, fine dining & of course road trip games. Machu Picchu up next!!!
I enjoyed this video so much. It was like my bf was telling me about her vacay! Also, I enjoyed the tips, most of which I already do BUT the upgrade to Club was the most interesting. I will have to look into that on my next vacay.
I LOVE YOUR TRAVEL TIPS! My husband and I have family all throughout the Midwest and we travel a lot to see them in Indianapolis, St Louis, Chicago and Milwaukee. All big cities with heavy price tags. I love saving any money any which way I can. I am glad you told me about the Club Levels. I never knew that!
LOL Debrief sounds so funny, it reminds me of my military days. Great video. Where is your next vacation? Can't wait to follow you there. Glad you had fun. oops sorry just finished the video and heard no travel plans...bummer.
I second the stocking up on food and drink for the room. I also always have some kind of big, light shawl which can second as a light blanket for naps and keep me safe from the airconditioning frost. I tend to bring my own shampoo etc. but often take the little bottles (and shower caps!) home with me for my gym bag.
Just took my 16 yr. old grandson there a month ago. Agree fully with the food, The Firewheel Cafe did not have a buffet at night, not the $50 meal! Can't remember the name of the fancy restaurant on the 2nd floor but went there our last night, delicious, pricey but am still teaching table manners etc! Had no idea skeet shooting was offered, I would have loved that. Not far from my ranch so a perfect quick location. We decided that a cruise was our best bet, so he could hangout with kids his age. We, too, had been there when he was younger, so nice to revisit. Loved your take on it and I totally forgot about the club level.
Great video! I think this would be a great theme for a Marnie and Michael video- how to save and plan for a family vacation! We haven't been in a few years because we fail to properly save and plan every year for one. Would love some advice on how to make this happen!
Great video! My rule when we book for our family of four: breakfast is included. LOL!! By the time two adults and two teens have breakfast, it's a $75-100 start to the day. We eat towards the end of the allocated time (usually 10am) which lasts us through lunch, then we either order a snack or two by the pool or I do as you guys do and bring down some stuff from the room. We also keep the fridge filled with drinks and fruit, and I grab a bottle of chemical sh*tstorm creamer to make a coffee every morning. OH! And I take my Yeti everywhere. :D
My sister and I take our families (kids all under age 9) to HLP every summer. We all love it! Moms can sip the best piña coladas in the world whilst bobbing down the lazy river with the kids, & dads golf. There’s a sandy beach attached to the pool - it’s an excellent family place! Roasting s’mores around the huge campfire & pony rides are a hit w/ our young crew. Thanks for the club level tip Marnie! We are going to do that next summer & save a ton. It was so fun to wake up and see that your fam loves HLP too! :) Thanks for sharing!
I've been watching a bunch of these Lost Pines trips this summer from bloggers and it looks like such a fun experience. I decided to contact them myself for the complimentary blogger nights and I'm so excited. I think I'm going to take my family in the fall when it cools off a bit! Looks like they really hooked you up!
I can relate to your husband being the planner. Even though I work for an airline, my husband creates spreadsheets for every trip. Love your take on resorts and Lost Pines. We always tend to take one big trip abroad and then a shorter car trip every year. But we are empty nesters and it's much easier for us to get away now. However, we have 16 grandchildren and have promised to take each family to Disney World when the youngest in that family is at least 5. Yes, we are crazy! Crazy fun! LOL!
Sounds like a great holiday, great fun. Would be interested in a smaller tote bag we’re off to Key West and really not sure what sort of bag to travel with lol
Good tips. I am sure we don't have anything quite as magical like Lost Pines in the Kansas City area. I guess the closest possibility would be somewhere in Colorado. You just have to suffer through that long boring 10+ hour drive through Western Kansas. I know I would prefer a relaxing vacation instead of a go, go, go type vacation next time.
I had to chuckle when I read this from you. My family for years had a lake house at Holiday Island on Table Rock Lake. It didn't even cross my mind to think of that area. I guess I don't think of the Ozarks as having resort type places, other than golfing. I know that area has grown a lot from when we had our house. I am curious now, so I will have to check it out.
Ah, ziplining for your kids...been there, done that, too! I loved the ziplining, but the rappelling was what terrified me! I wore Nike dri-fit capris, and a bathing suit top under a Nike top (also dri-fit). You have sold me on nearby resort vacations. The travel time, sitting bunched up on the plane for hours, is what kills long distance travel for me.
Sounds like it was a fun time! I went ziplining in Park City and it was a blast. I was slightly terrified because I'm pretty afraid of heights, so even the ski lift ride to go TO the ziplining was a bit nerve-wracking haha. Do you have any suggestions for good first-time trips to take with a toddler? I have a 2 1/2 year old and we havent really done any trips aside from short weekend excursions because when she was younger it just seemed like a lot of work. I'm someone that hates taking a lot of STUFF everywhere and you know when you have kids that are little, it's inevitable that you end up hauling a lot of things and I just didn't want to deal with it. But now that she's older, and is basically 100% potty trained, it seems like it could be a little more feasible and less of a hassle. I'm craving some sort of vacation (even though the mom never truly is on vacation haha). I've thought about Disney, but she's still so young that she wouldn't remember anything about the trip, so it seems like it might be better to hold off on that for a few years when she will actually be old enough to enjoy it more.
We’ve dragged our kids everywhere at that age-Disney, cruises, it kind of depends on where you live to make it easier on you. Resorts are usually a very family friendly place.
Amanda Lillie I agree about Longchamp Le Pliage, it is my go to bag for traveling, BUT the trick is to use smaller bags inside, otherwise it is just a big black hole.
You look so pretty in this video. I love your makeup and hair...looks so youthful ... Don't get me wrong, you are a very pretty lady but this look was just really stunning to me...
What a fun trip! I always love the way you light up when you talk about your children and husband! 💕. And you look just as beautiful in casual wear as you do dressed up!
Great tips, Marnie, especially about club level. Looks like you all had a great time- how fun is it that you met up with Lisa?! LOVE that family photo of everyone in their kayaking gear- so cute!!
Loved this!!! What great tips! You look GREAT Marnie, but my favorite part was the throw back pic of y'all when the boys were little and the skeet shooting! (bc that's my life!) xoxo
These travel updates and do’s/don’t are great. I’m use to traveling to beach locations so, extra suits and flowing long dresses are a must. I usually get my dresses at Venus (wait for a sale) I now have a great collection. SUNSCREEN is a huge tip - Marnie is right $$ at the resorts.
Love resorts vacations! We have ordered food ahead of time from Gardengrocer when staying in Disney and works great. I know several people who have ordered from Amazon and the concierge had their box when they arrived. Always good to have options if you don't have a car. I agree about the extra bathing suit - things can take forever to dry out in hotel rooms. Looks like a great resort!
When traveling in Alaska I seem to come with my own cooler. So difficult to be traveling and find gluten and soy free up here. That is what I miss about Arizona when I was there in June. It was so much easier to find restaurants that could cater to that specific type of eating requirement.
No tips Marnie but what lovely memories you and micheal have made with your boys. They will always remember the family times. My boys are grown up eldest son got married last week and is now in Torquay in Devon for a short honeymoon a place we went to on a family holiday when they were small. 😘
Thank you for tips on staying at resort. Great ideas. Thank you for recommendation on Zella joggers. Several colors are on sale Nordstrom the gray and tan. Was able to grab the gray. Hopefully I like them as much as you. 😊
Maggie Go to Dumfries and Galloway in the southwest corner of Scotland. Beautiful scenery, lots of history, and hardly anyone else goes there! Because the Gulf Stream hits there, the climate is milder than many other parts of Scotland. I don’t work for their tourism office, just have visited 3 times and adore it there :)
Sounds fabulous. This may be a good idea for our Texas visit for June graduation. I use my LV neverful. It's always classic. It's large but not over the top .....
Marnie, you said this trip cost $3500. I’m sorry - it looks like a nice place to stay with young kids for a few nights but nowhere near worth $3500. Are you sure you weren’t overcharged?
That’s just what resorts cost, anywhere we’ve traveled. Room rates are typically around $300-$400 a night to start. I think there’s a resort up in PA called Nemacolin Woodlands resort that starts in the mid $400s and if you add packages can jump into the $600s pretty quickly. It’s a golf resort Michael has on his list. 😉
Good morning and thanks for lots of great information. My husband also loves to plan our vacations and is amazing at it. Egypt is next on the agenda for us. Glad you liked the zip line. I usually wear yoga pants, tee and a ball cap when I have to wear a helmet. If you wear shorts the harness can bunch up your shorts and make them really short and uncomfortable.
Hi Marnie. I recently discovered your channel and I have been binge watching! I love it! I notice that you get a lot of mean spirited comments and I really don't understand why? Maybe people are jealous?
I don’t know what the reason is, but it’s still hurtful. But I’m very thankful the majority are like you and are quite kind and thoughtful. Thanks for watching!
This was great and very timely! We leave tomorrow for a family vacay to Gulf Shores, AL (about a 7 hour drive from my home in MS). My “children” are the same ages as yours - 20 and 17. I cannot wait! Great tips 😁.
You have suggested the snack ideas/drinks in room before and it has helped us so much when we travel. Even if we do not rent a car, we ask our driver to stop by a convenient store so we can grab drinks/snacks/breakfast items for our room. Love this idea! About zip lining, we have done this in costa rica (600 feet in air above the rainforest trees) and in mexico. Yes, you definitely want pants or longer shorts and a shirt to wear. Athletic shorts would be too short and the harnesses would rub you. I can't wait to watch the vlog to see all the fun you had that week! :-)
First I’d like to say that look beautiful like you always you do and you’re really rock’in those hoop earrings. Can you please share where you got them, Nordstrom’s recent sale? Thank you again for sharing your yearly vacation. I love watching your vacations as you share your beautiful days and allowing me to live through your lovely trips. You looked totally AWESOME in your bathing suit. Thank you for sharing your vacation-resort tips.
You might like lake Austin spa and resort. The dining is included and they are very gluten free friendly
I’d love to go there-but NOT with the kids! 😉
It looks like you had a great time! These family memories are so precious and important. It is great you all got away together.
Luv this video . I tried your last recommendation and went to la cantera. I luv that place especially in the fall when there isn’t as many people. Did you like the spa there better?
I used a packing cube for a work trip because of your suggestion. Loved having my clothes all bundled up and not loose in my suitcase. Thank you! Great tips
I love that all of you still enjoy vacationing together
As someone who has a family member with an inflammatory bowel disease, I find it very difficult to share a room with only 1 bathroom. Hopefully this means Shane’s disease is relatively controlled because otherwise, 1 bathroom is difficult.
He’s in clinical remission!! 🙌🏻🙌🏻 Otherwise, I totally understand!
Marnie Goldberg That’s wonderful for Shane and I hope it continues, but I’m wondering why his dr won’t let him fly. How does flying affect his UC if he’s in remission? My loved one’s GI has never given him a flying restriction even when he’s been in remission. This baffles me.
It's not that he won't let him fly, but one of the drugs he's still taking is an immuno-supressant, so it's best to limit flying or spending long periods of time breathing in recycled air.
Marnie Goldberg interesting. Having ppl on immunosuppressants for literally decades, we’ve never had a restriction, flights both to Europe and Asia included. Different GIs, different ideas.
PrairieMakeup It’s worked for Shane. Not going to rock that boat!
So helpful! Never thought about doing the resort club option. And I loved your suit! I ordered joggers and the same suit the next day 🤣 you’re right! It does suck you in all the right places.
I think I’m only going to wear that brand from now on! And I just bought the joggers in black yesterday! So fun hanging out with you!!! 😘
I had no idea you could ask for things to be in your room.. is that a charge or free?
No charge at all!!
Thanks for sharing your tips. We have done the resort club option whenever it is available specially at high end resorts. The restaurants at Atlantis in the Bahamas are particularly exorbitant, and we are a family of five so we upgrade to the clubhouse option there. What we have been doing over the past eight years is to rent a condo/vacation home within the resort. We love doing this mainly because with three kids a traditional resort room is just not enough space. We love to stretch out and we usually get a three bedroom condo with fully stocked kitchen and washer/dryer. We ALWAYS do this at Disney World. Since we rent a condo/vacation home, as soon as we arrive, I hit the nearby supermarket to stock up for breakfast food items and snacks. We do breakfast in the condo, lunch and dinner out, but sometimes we like to actually cook dinner in the condo as well which is fun for us. We much prefer the condo/vacation home option and we get to do our laundry before we head home which is yet another perk.
Great tips! I've not stayed at many resorts, but after hearing your suggestions, can definitely see the benefit in it. I did stay at Lost Pines a few years back for a work trip and it was a fabulous place! Thanks to you, I think it will make the short list when we plan our next vacation. Cheers!
We love staying at resorts too! We’ve stayed at some great Hyatt resorts. Sounds like you guys had a great time. Do you still do one room for all four of you?
We do for now. Not sure if that's going to continue for much longer, which will be a shame, since we have so much fun hanging out at night watching silly tv shows!
My hubby travels for work so he has status with two major hotel chains. If you have status the club rooms access is complimentary ❤️
Kiawah Island Resort is awesome. Several golf courses, beautiful beach, pools.
TFS, Marnie! Love your channel and your wonderfully witty personality. Your advice about the club upgrade is the best! We discovered it years ago when an airline canceled our flight until the NEXT day but comped us a night at an airport hotel with Club privileges. Have paid for it several times since but have also been lucky to have it offered as a comp twice at close-to-home resort we splurge on every few years. Best, Marbs💕
All great advice! It totally pays to be organized right down to all of the activities which should, if possible, be scheduled before arriving at your destination. They can certainly dictate your vacation schedule.
That’s how we did it. Having it all planned out (and paid for) before you get there really makes it a true vacation!
Thank you for great recommendations Marnie. Stay fabulous and enjoy your weekend. Aloha 🌺
This was really helpful! We have a two year old son now so our days of trekking through Asia etc are probably done for a while. We like to rent a condo by the beach usually or do an all inclusive at a resort otherwise I spend the time getting worried about how much money we’re spending (my own fault but I can’t help it!)
Marnie, I love your topical videos that can easily be referenced in the future! Sometimes when you share ideas within your vlogs, it can be hard to find it again later if I want to revisit the info. As a long time viewer, it was obvious to me that this was your intent. I wish the TH-cam world would be less cynical and think that everyone is selling their soul to marketers. I hope your newer viewers will find over time that you are incredibly honest, forthright on your sponsorships/ affiliates and give great personal advice. There is a reason you have reached 100,000 viewers and it was not just by creating a few viral videos, but building character based friendships over many years. (I reposted this comment in your general video feed, because I felt like it will be lost as a reply.)
Thank you for being one of the few who understood why I made this video (and this type)! Your words mean so much to me, as does your friendship-we are WAY overdue for a get together!
Marnie, I probably missed it, but do the four of you stay in the same room, or do the boys have their own room when y’all travel?
We stay in the same room-2 queen beds. Works out great!
Marnie Goldberg Wow, glad it works for you all. It would not work for us and my kids are younger than yours. The only way we do family vacations is by renting a condo or a room with a connecting bedroom though I know that is not always feasible for some people. As far as resort food expense, when my kids were younger and we would go to Disney, we always purchased the dining packages. Yes, you pay more, but it was worth it for us...or we just do all-inclusive resorts outside of the US.
Sounds like such a fun trip, Marnie! And great suggestions and tips. ~ Janis from Florida
We purchased the Club Level at a Disney Resort last year and it was terrific. We packed little mini sandwiches from breakfast ingredients for lunches and saved so much money during the day at the park.
Great video! I love hearing your trip recaps! They are very helpful in giving practical tips I wouldn't really think about otherwise! Also, your hair looks great in this video!
Thanks for the outfit ideas. I bought the old navy cardigan. Love these videos.
I love watching your travel debrief videos! You give such great tips and tricks. Please keep on filming and sharing these!! 😁
Great suggestions! Thanks for sharing, looks like a fabulous time with your family, I love it because you are creating lasting memories! ❤️ Loved it!!
Was the zip line and kayaking included, or was that a separate fee?
That was all separate.
The boys didn't get their own room? So nice that you all stayed together! Tfs your wonderful trip. We love the Hyatt Residences. Always stay at the one on Siesta Key beach, when it isn't red tide of course. ☺
Sounds lovely, Marnie. Your family has certainly created some beautiful memories!
That club level tip is so smart. We did a "staycation" at the Houstonian a couple years ago and did that for the first time. Just hubby and I but we barely ate anything else. I think we got room service once in 4 nights and lunch the one time we ventured out of the hotel. It's also great to have a second semi private lounge space. Hotel lobbies can get really busy and hotel rooms start feeling claustrophobic so that was great when I wanted someplace different to stretch out and read for a bit with easy access to snacks and a soda.
I'll be looking into Lost Pines. How was the spa? I was starting to look for someplace within a few hour drive for another trip when we celebrate his chemo finishing next year.. this place sounds fun!
The spa is very nice-I got the best massage I’ve ever had there! Ask for Michelle if you go. Congrats to your husband almost finishing chemo!! 💪🏻
My husband & I spent our 25th anniversary in Palm Desert, CA in Nov and absolutely loved the resort. The Marriott Shadow Ridge Resort is absolutely beautiful & full of amenities as well as a world-class golf course. We are planning another trip simply as a l.o.n.g. weekend. We live near Chicago, so it's a hike for a long weekend but so worth it. We find that we prefer to put the bulk of our spending into where we stay. Other than sights, our hotel is the #1 priority of our getaways. Thanks for the great review & debrief!
We loved our visit to that area a couple of years ago-it's so beautiful there!
Great tips! Several years ago I stayed 10 days, at a resort, off season; so, it was already discounted. They had an 'entertainment/education' night; so, my friend and I negotiated an additional discount in exchange for each of us giving a presentation in our area of expertise.
I loved hearing about your vacation. It's nice to see you glowing thinking about it. Everyone says teenagers don't hangout with their families, you prove that wrong.
Thanks for sharing Marnie! Loving these little travel tid bits - super helpful!!
Scout totes are great for the the pool. Lost Pines is beautiful...my girlfriends and I went there for a getaway and we had a blast.
I am a kayaker and find the best thing to wear is a bottom bathing suit with quick dry shorts and tank top. So comfortable and don't forget a visor or hat. Sounds like you had a great family vacation!
We did the same thing this year. I love just throwing what we want to take in the car.
I worked for Hyatt (out of corporate) in the 90s (pre-kids) and the Club levels are the way to go.
I'm so glad it was a great vacation for you and your family! I love these debriefings. Very informative. And girl, you rock that turquoise bathing suit! xo ~ linda
Hi, Marnie :) We love the LPHyatt and have been there numerous times. Will have to go back and try club level. Great idea! Love the debrief blog idea. Thanks for the video!
These are awesome tips! I think we will look for a club level service next time we go to a resort, more variety and probably cheaper than room service. Thanks for sharing your vacation photos, such a good looking family, and the family bonding time is so important!
I agree staying club level actually saves money. I have two teen boys and a hubby who likes his beer in the pm, so the club level more then pays for itself! I also agree with zip lining, better to wear more clothing because of all the harness. I will say that resort looks stunning, I will have to check it out for a family vacation with my boys and hubby.
Great video Marnie, very helpful. What a great vacation idea and definitely the kind I like with lots of family time. We did this type of vacation quite often and miss them now that my kids are older💕
Thank you for all the helpful tips! I wasn't able to afford a vacation this year so I'm living vicariously through you! Thanks!
Nice to know what others take (helpful hints) going on vacations. I try to pack cotton sun dresses, capris and a few tops. We stay at resorts that have a kitchen so we can prepare our food and maybe have one meal out everyday. Loved your video Marnie.
Marnie, Thanks for keeping me company during my morning cappuccino! As always, love your videos!
Thanks Wendy!
Great idea to find a resort in driving distance! Love these debriefs.
Awesome tips! I'm definitely going to use the club room level idea, thanks Marnie!!
Love, love, love active vacations...can’t get enough kayaking, zip lining. hiking, exploring, fine dining & of course road trip games. Machu Picchu up next!!!
I enjoyed this video so much. It was like my bf was telling me about her vacay! Also, I enjoyed the tips, most of which I already do BUT the upgrade to Club was the most interesting. I will have to look into that on my next vacay.
I LOVE YOUR TRAVEL TIPS! My husband and I have family all throughout the Midwest and we travel a lot to see them in Indianapolis, St Louis, Chicago and Milwaukee. All big cities with heavy price tags. I love saving any money any which way I can. I am glad you told me about the Club Levels. I never knew that!
Club levels are fun-it’s also a nice place just to hang out. Let me know if you end up trying one out!
Super helpful!!!! Thank you!! What a beautiful resort!!
What an amazing place. I’m adding it to my bucket list. Great tips too
Yes yes yes!! These videos on what was useful for you when traveling are great! I’ve learned lots of tips and tricks . Thank you
LOL Debrief sounds so funny, it reminds me of my military days. Great video. Where is your next vacation? Can't wait to follow you there. Glad you had fun. oops sorry just finished the video and heard no travel plans...bummer.
Yeah-gets harder to plan family trips these days. Not sure what Jake is doing over winter break yet.
Really great tips for vacationing. Wish there was someone like you when I was raising my boys for good advice.
I second the stocking up on food and drink for the room. I also always have some kind of big, light shawl which can second as a light blanket for naps and keep me safe from the airconditioning frost. I tend to bring my own shampoo etc. but often take the little bottles (and shower caps!) home with me for my gym bag.
My son and his buddies were vacuum cleaners for food when they were teens
Thank you Marnie. Such great information and we love playing games together too!
Those BP swing tanks are my favorite! I just ordered another black backup.
Just took my 16 yr. old grandson there a month ago. Agree fully with the food, The Firewheel Cafe did not have a buffet at night, not the $50 meal! Can't remember the name of the fancy restaurant on the 2nd floor but went there our last night, delicious, pricey but am still teaching table manners etc! Had no idea skeet shooting was offered, I would have loved that. Not far from my ranch so a perfect quick location. We decided that a cruise was our best bet, so he could hangout with kids his age. We, too, had been there when he was younger, so nice to revisit. Loved your take on it and I totally forgot about the club level.
Great video! I think this would be a great theme for a Marnie and Michael video- how to save and plan for a family vacation! We haven't been in a few years because we fail to properly save and plan every year for one. Would love some advice on how to make this happen!
Great video! My rule when we book for our family of four: breakfast is included. LOL!! By the time two adults and two teens have breakfast, it's a $75-100 start to the day. We eat towards the end of the allocated time (usually 10am) which lasts us through lunch, then we either order a snack or two by the pool or I do as you guys do and bring down some stuff from the room. We also keep the fridge filled with drinks and fruit, and I grab a bottle of chemical sh*tstorm creamer to make a coffee every morning. OH! And I take my Yeti everywhere. :D
My sister and I take our families (kids all under age 9) to HLP every summer. We all love it! Moms can sip the best piña coladas in the world whilst bobbing down the lazy river with the kids, & dads golf. There’s a sandy beach attached to the pool - it’s an excellent family place! Roasting s’mores around the huge campfire & pony rides are a hit w/ our young crew. Thanks for the club level tip Marnie! We are going to do that next summer & save a ton. It was so fun to wake up and see that your fam loves HLP too! :) Thanks for sharing!
I've been watching a bunch of these Lost Pines trips this summer from bloggers and it looks like such a fun experience. I decided to contact them myself for the complimentary blogger nights and I'm so excited. I think I'm going to take my family in the fall when it cools off a bit! Looks like they really hooked you up!
What complimentary blogger deal?! We paid for that whole trip in full ahead of time! Totally missed out on the blogger deal! 😂
Oh dear!
I can relate to your husband being the planner. Even though I work for an airline, my husband creates spreadsheets for every trip. Love your take on resorts and Lost Pines. We always tend to take one big trip abroad and then a shorter car trip every year. But we are empty nesters and it's much easier for us to get away now. However, we have 16 grandchildren and have promised to take each family to Disney World when the youngest in that family is at least 5. Yes, we are crazy! Crazy fun! LOL!
What's the difference between a resort and a hotel?
A resort has extensive grounds, extra activities, swimming pools, golf, spa, multiple dining options, etc. A regular hotel is usually just rooms.
Come to JW Marriott Starr Pass in Tucson.
Sounds like a great holiday, great fun. Would be interested in a smaller tote bag we’re off to Key West and really not sure what sort of bag to travel with lol
Good tips. I am sure we don't have anything quite as magical like Lost Pines in the Kansas City area. I guess the closest possibility would be somewhere in Colorado. You just have to suffer through that long boring 10+ hour drive through Western Kansas. I know I would prefer a relaxing vacation instead of a go, go, go type vacation next time.
I think there’s probably a few options in Missouri. Or Nw Arkansas?
I had to chuckle when I read this from you. My family for years had a lake house at Holiday Island on Table Rock Lake. It didn't even cross my mind to think of that area. I guess I don't think of the Ozarks as having resort type places, other than golfing. I know that area has grown a lot from when we had our house. I am curious now, so I will have to check it out.
MZ Wallace metro backpacks ROCK! Nylon and super chic and lightweight
Love it! What a nice vacation and thank you so much for sharing!
Ah, ziplining for your kids...been there, done that, too! I loved the ziplining, but the rappelling was what terrified me! I wore Nike dri-fit capris, and a bathing suit top under a Nike top (also dri-fit).
You have sold me on nearby resort vacations. The travel time, sitting bunched up on the plane for hours, is what kills long distance travel for me.
Sounds like it was a fun time! I went ziplining in Park City and it was a blast. I was slightly terrified because I'm pretty afraid of heights, so even the ski lift ride to go TO the ziplining was a bit nerve-wracking haha. Do you have any suggestions for good first-time trips to take with a toddler? I have a 2 1/2 year old and we havent really done any trips aside from short weekend excursions because when she was younger it just seemed like a lot of work. I'm someone that hates taking a lot of STUFF everywhere and you know when you have kids that are little, it's inevitable that you end up hauling a lot of things and I just didn't want to deal with it. But now that she's older, and is basically 100% potty trained, it seems like it could be a little more feasible and less of a hassle. I'm craving some sort of vacation (even though the mom never truly is on vacation haha). I've thought about Disney, but she's still so young that she wouldn't remember anything about the trip, so it seems like it might be better to hold off on that for a few years when she will actually be old enough to enjoy it more.
We’ve dragged our kids everywhere at that age-Disney, cruises, it kind of depends on where you live to make it easier on you. Resorts are usually a very family friendly place.
Thanks! I've looked into Disney cruises before and have heavily considered it. :D
I really like using a Longchamp Le Pliage Tote for travel. They are super light weight and you can fit alot in it.
Amanda Lillie I agree about Longchamp Le Pliage, it is my go to bag for traveling, BUT the trick is to use smaller bags inside, otherwise it is just a big black hole.
Leonorinspired For sure! I have a couple of cosmetic cases I use. I tease my kids that it's a bottomless pit!
You look so pretty in this video. I love your makeup and hair...looks so youthful ... Don't get me wrong, you are a very pretty lady but this look was just really stunning to me...
What a fun trip! I always love the way you light up when you talk about your children and husband! 💕. And you look just as beautiful in casual wear as you do dressed up!
I loved seeing you and Lisa J - too cute
Sounded like a beautiful holiday. Glad you had the time away. Thanks for sharing
Great tips, Marnie, especially about club level. Looks like you all had a great time- how fun is it that you met up with Lisa?! LOVE that family photo of everyone in their kayaking gear- so cute!!
Spending time with Lisa is always great, but it was even more fun to have the husbands meet and they really enjoyed spending time together too!
Loved this!!! What great tips! You look GREAT Marnie, but my favorite part was the throw back pic of y'all when the boys were little and the skeet shooting! (bc that's my life!) xoxo
I thought you'd like the skeet shooting part! Jake was killing it (pun intended)!!
I appreciate these tips. Almost 100,000!
These travel updates and do’s/don’t are great. I’m use to traveling to beach locations so, extra suits and flowing long dresses are a must. I usually get my dresses at Venus (wait for a sale) I now have a great collection. SUNSCREEN is a huge tip - Marnie is right $$ at the resorts.
Good times! Great and super helpful tips. 👍
Looks like you had a nice time. Thanks for sharing. You look GREAT in your bathing suit.
Thank you Debbie!!
Love resorts vacations! We have ordered food ahead of time from Gardengrocer when staying in Disney and works great. I know several people who have ordered from Amazon and the concierge had their box when they arrived. Always good to have options if you don't have a car. I agree about the extra bathing suit - things can take forever to dry out in hotel rooms. Looks like a great resort!
Great video Marnie! Looks like a wonderful place for a family vacation. Have a great weekend. xoxo, Cindi
When traveling in Alaska I seem to come with my own cooler. So difficult to be traveling and find gluten and soy free up here. That is what I miss about Arizona when I was there in June. It was so much easier to find restaurants that could cater to that specific type of eating requirement.
No tips Marnie but what lovely memories you and micheal have made with your boys. They will always remember the family times. My boys are grown up eldest son got married last week and is now in Torquay in Devon for a short honeymoon a place we went to on a family holiday when they were small. 😘
That’s pretty cool that he’s come full circle-now a married man!! Congrats!
Marnie Goldberg thanks Marnie 😘
Thank you for tips on staying at resort. Great ideas.
Thank you for recommendation on Zella joggers. Several colors are on sale Nordstrom the gray and tan. Was able to grab the gray. Hopefully I like them as much as you. 😊
I just bought another pair full price (in black)! I love them!
Random Question Marnie, What took you to Scotland? Love to go one day :D What lovely memories for you and your family!
It was just somewhere we’d always wanted to go for various reasons. So we just went for it! It was magical!
I always imagine something oldtime and green. One day :D
Maggie Go to Dumfries and Galloway in the southwest corner of Scotland. Beautiful scenery, lots of history, and hardly anyone else goes there! Because the Gulf Stream hits there, the climate is milder than many other parts of Scotland. I don’t work for their tourism office, just have visited 3 times and adore it there :)
DrNik Thank you!!😊
Just Googled some images, Wow just wow!
Sounds fantastic!
Sounds fabulous. This may be a good idea for our Texas visit for June graduation. I use my LV neverful. It's always classic. It's large but not over the top .....
Marnie, you said this trip cost $3500. I’m sorry - it looks like a nice place to stay with young kids for a few nights but nowhere near worth $3500. Are you sure you weren’t overcharged?
That included all meals, activities, golf, spa, club access, and 5 nights at a very nice resort at peak season. That’s a pretty typical price.
Marnie Goldberg oh I see. Maybe it has to do with location too. I’m in PA.
That’s just what resorts cost, anywhere we’ve traveled. Room rates are typically around $300-$400 a night to start. I think there’s a resort up in PA called Nemacolin Woodlands resort that starts in the mid $400s and if you add packages can jump into the $600s pretty quickly. It’s a golf resort Michael has on his list. 😉
Marnie Goldberg oh my! I looked at that resort you mentioned - it’s beautiful!
Good morning and thanks for lots of great information. My husband also loves to plan our vacations and is amazing at it. Egypt is next on the agenda for us. Glad you liked the zip line. I usually wear yoga pants, tee and a ball cap when I have to wear a helmet. If you wear shorts the harness can bunch up your shorts and make them really short and uncomfortable.
The Dressbarn Kimono cover-up IS still available and with an additional 30% off!!! Just SEVEN BUCKS!
WOO HOO!!
Hi Marnie. I recently discovered your channel and I have been binge watching! I love it! I notice that you get a lot of mean spirited comments and I really don't understand why? Maybe people are jealous?
I don’t know what the reason is, but it’s still hurtful. But I’m very thankful the majority are like you and are quite kind and thoughtful. Thanks for watching!
Great video! I love the resort tips!
This was great and very timely! We leave tomorrow for a family vacay to Gulf Shores, AL (about a 7 hour drive from my home in MS). My “children” are the same ages as yours - 20 and 17. I cannot wait! Great tips 😁.
That’s another destination on my wish list! Have a great time with your family!
You have suggested the snack ideas/drinks in room before and it has helped us so much when we travel. Even if we do not rent a car, we ask our driver to stop by a convenient store so we can grab drinks/snacks/breakfast items for our room. Love this idea! About zip lining, we have done this in costa rica (600 feet in air above the rainforest trees) and in mexico. Yes, you definitely want pants or longer shorts and a shirt to wear. Athletic shorts would be too short and the harnesses would rub you. I can't wait to watch the vlog to see all the fun you had that week! :-)
That’s good to know about zip lining-although I don’t know if I’ll ever do that again!! 🤣
First I’d like to say that look beautiful like you always you do and you’re really rock’in those hoop earrings. Can you please share where you got them, Nordstrom’s recent sale? Thank you again for sharing your yearly vacation. I love watching your vacations as you share your beautiful days and allowing me to live through your lovely trips. You looked totally AWESOME in your bathing suit. Thank you for sharing your vacation-resort tips.