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Ever tried a resort day pass? We spent the day at Beaches Negril, and it was honestly one of the easiest ways to enjoy a luxury all-inclusive without staying overnight. Here is how the Beaches Negril day pass works, what it costs and what you get.
Where it is
Beaches Negril is on Seven Mile Beach in Negril, Jamaica. It is a family-friendly, all-inclusive resort right on one of the best beaches in Jamaica.
How the day pass works
You can book a day pass directly with the resort by calling or emailing a few days before. They only release a limited number of spots. We actually walked in, showed our passports and were able to get access for the day, but I would not rely on that during busy periods.
Day pass: around 10am to 6pm.
Evening pass: around 6pm to 2am.
Prices usually range from about $100 to $200 USD per adult, and less for kids, depending on the season.
What you get with the day pass
Full access to the resort for the day.
Pools, the beach and a lazy river.
A water park and splash areas for kids.
Unlimited food and drinks.
The kids club and activities.
Towels and everything you need on site.
It is a really good option if you want the experience without committing to the full stay. You can watch our day in my Negril beaches video on Instagram.
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Looking for a day trip from Lyon with kids? Lake Geneva is one of my favourite day trips from Lyon. I used to go all the time when I lived there (mostly to party, haha), and this time I took my sister and the kids over to see a friend. Here is how to get from Lyon to Geneva, what it costs, and what to do with kids.
Before you go: Switzerland is not in the EU
Switzerland is not in the EU. It has its own currency, the Swiss franc (CHF), and its own rules. A Europe roaming plan does not always cover Switzerland, so check yours before you go.
Lyon to Geneva by car
The drive is 90 minutes from Lyon, and the French tolls are about 15.60 euro each way. Stay on the French motorway and cross the border on ordinary roads to avoid paying for the Swiss motorway sticker, which is 40 CHF for the year, with no day version.
Lyon to Geneva by train
The train takes 2 hours, from Lyon Part-Dieu to Geneva Cornavin. Tickets start from 20 euro one way per adult, with 15 trains a day. Children under 4 travel free on your lap, children 4 to 11 pay half price, and 12 and over pay full fare. You can book on sncf-connect.com.
Prices in Geneva
Prices are in Swiss francs, and 1 CHF is about 1 euro or 1.70 CAD. It is expensive, haha. A water, a tea, a Coke or 1 scoop of ice cream was 5 CHF each, the merry-go-round was 3.50, a drink at Starbucks was 8.50 (nearly 15 CAD), and a burger was 23.
Things to do in Geneva with kids
The Jet d’Eau, the thing Geneva is known for.
The flower clock in the Jardin Anglais, the biggest in the world, and free.
Swim at Bains des Pâquis, right next to the Jet d’Eau, for 2 CHF.
Cross the bay on the little yellow boats. A bus ticket covers them.
The Broken Chair outside the UN, 12 metres tall.
CERN, just outside the city, where the visitor centre is free.
We went on 1 August, the Swiss national day, and everything was closed.
A stop on the way back
On the way back we stopped at Flunch for dinner. I grew up going to Flunch, and now my kids have been to one too. There is a playground, so it is an easy stop on the drive back.
If you are planning a trip to France and Switzerland, my pre-travel checklist is the list I run before every trip, and it is free. You can get it here.
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Planning a Dubai desert safari with kids, or even with a baby? Who says you cannot take your baby on a desert safari in Dubai? We did, and it was our second time trying it. Here is what the day looks like, how we did it with a baby, and our tips.
What a Dubai desert safari looks like
Pick-up and the first camp
Our driver picked us up at our place in Dubai for a scenic 1 hour drive to the camp, in an air-conditioned car. The first stop was a lively camp filled with tourists, where we could grab souvenirs and snacks. Quad biking was an option for adults and kids over a certain age, while others, like me with a baby, just relaxed and soaked in the atmosphere.
Dressing up
We brought our ghutra, the traditional white head wrap. You can buy one there at a premium price. Our driver wrapped our heads, Dubai style.
Dune bashing
We went back to our 4×4 SUV for dune bashing, a thrilling ride over the dunes. It is like a roller coaster on the sand, with ups, downs and sharp turns. It was exciting for the whole family, and the kids loved it.
Sunset
We ended the afternoon with a breathtaking sunset before heading to the next camp for dinner and entertainment.
Camel ride, dinner and shows
We started with a scenic camel ride, a hit with the whole family, with my daughter crashing my ride. Then we had a buffet dinner with a variety of options for everyone: meat, vegetarian, Indian, Arabic and western dishes. There was a variety of dance shows while we were eating, followed by a magical light show. The kids got to try henna on their hands and browse the shops, all included in the price. Then our driver took us back to Dubai.
Overall, this experience was worth it. It was very family and baby friendly. We did our tour with Zakria Tour Dubai. If you want to compare options, you can look for Dubai desert safaris on Viator.
How to do a desert safari with a baby
Choose a baby carrier over a stroller: sand and wheels do not mix. I love my Ergobaby carrier.
Dress your little one in breathable clothing to stay cool under the desert sun, but bring a blanket and long sleeves for the evening.
Book your safari for the cooler late afternoon hours, to avoid the intense heat of the day.
Tips for a Dubai desert safari with kids
Your driver stays with you the whole time, so you can feel secure leaving your bags in the car while you head out.
Stay close to your driver, especially in crowded areas. It helps you get through busy spots without any hassle.
Many vendors at the camp will try to sell you things, and a polite “no, thank you” works.
Bring cash in dirhams for extra activities or souvenirs like photos.
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Planning Atlanta with kids? I have been to Atlanta many times, but coming back with my kids felt completely different. It was a weekend trip, flying solo with the kids and visiting friends. Here is how we did it, where to stay, and the things to do in Atlanta with kids.
Flying from Toronto to Atlanta with kids
The flight from Toronto to Atlanta is 2 hours, and we flew with Air Canada. US immigration is done in Canada, and the line was so long. Come 3 to 4 hours early to the airport, and bring snacks and entertainment for the kids while you wait.
I used my CIBC Aeroplan Visa card for free lounge access. Here is more on airport lounges with kids. Download the Aeroplan app too: you can track your bags, manage your booking and get free WiFi on the flight.
At the airport, I gate checked our YOYO stroller and checked the toddler car seat. Since I was travelling without my husband, I had a travel consent form from him, ready to go. If you are flying solo too, here is how to travel alone with your kids.
I always carry a cross-body bag with everything I need on me: passports and boarding passes, a small wallet with US and Canadian credit cards and US cash, a phone battery, hair ties, headphones and hand sanitizer. It keeps my hands free from security through boarding, and I have a separate diaper bag for the rest.
My advice is to rent a car. Atlanta traffic is heavy, but you need one.
Things to do in Atlanta with kids
Balance is everything for us, so we mixed history, animals, nature and time to just play.
The King Center
The King Center is the home, museum and memorial of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and there is a lot to see on the grounds. We mostly went for my oldest, who is old enough to start understanding that history. That one was important. Visiting his childhood home was so nice.
Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world, and the kids loved it. Here is my full guide to the Georgia Aquarium with kids, with ticket prices and tips.
Atlanta Botanical Garden
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is beautiful and calm, and it is a good pace with kids.
More things to do in Atlanta
The World of Coca-Cola: we enjoyed trying all the different flavours.
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Visiting São Paulo, Brazil with kids? When people think about Brazil, São Paulo is not usually the first place that comes to mind, but visiting with my daughter showed me how much this city has to offer when you know what to expect. It was a very short girls trip in January, mom and daughter edition, and our first time in South America for both of us.
Here is a São Paulo itinerary with kids, the places we visited, and everything I wish I knew before going.
Before you go: visas and passports
Since April 2025, Canadians with a Canadian passport need an e-Visa before flying to Brazil for tourism. It is online, valid for stays of up to about 90 days, and you apply before your trip. Under most current rules, French passport holders do not need a visa for short tourist stays, usually up to 90 days.
I did not want to pay for a visa, so for the first time since becoming a Canadian citizen, I left Canada with my French passport. Apply for the e-Visa well before your trip if you need one, make sure your passport is valid for at least the length of your stay, and check the details with the official Brazilian consulate or the gov.br site before you go.
Getting there from Toronto
We took a direct overnight flight with Air Canada from Toronto to São Paulo. It is 10 hours, and it was not bad, since we slept. We used the Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge before the flight, courtesy of my Aeroplan credit card.
Immigration at GRU airport was very quick. We handed over our French passports and it was a quick hi and bye as they stamped them. I had a travel authorization ready for my daughter, but they did not ask any questions. We only had carry-ons, so the exit was quick too.
I got some cash at the airport. They take credit cards most places, but I always like to have some cash. Then we waited for our Uber.
São Paulo itinerary with kids
This is the list I had for São Paulo, with places both parents and kids will enjoy.
Day 1: West (Vila Madalena and Pacaembu)
Beco do Batman: colourful street art.
Football Museum: an interactive indoor stop.
Parque Ibirapuera: a big park to run.
Day 2: Downtown
Mercado Municipal: a vibrant food market.
Catavento Museum: hands-on science.
Marco Zero: the historic city centre.
Day 3: Avenida Paulista area
Avenida Paulista: an iconic avenue with a mall.
Farol Santander: skyline views.
Day 4: Liberdade and Ipiranga
Liberdade: Japanese streets and food.
Parque da Independência: a calm green space.
Day 5: South
São Paulo Zoo or the Aquarium: an easy animal day.
Day 6: day trip to Santos
Santos is about 1 to 2 hours from São Paulo: a beach and a walkable coastal city, with the Pelé Museum and the waterfront promenade.
Beco do Batman is a street art alley in Vila Madalena. It is colourful, open and an easy stop with kids, and it started in the 1980s after a Batman drawing appeared on a wall. The walls are so beautiful. We spent about 1 hour there and went in the morning, when it was not too busy. I love free activities. There is a cute café right there, and I had to try the local desserts.
Museu do Futebol
The football museum was one of the first museums I wanted to check out in São Paulo, because football is a big part of Brazilian culture. You start the visit with a virtual welcome from Pelé. Entry is R$24 per adult, about $6.50 CAD, and it is free under 7. We spent about 1 hour there. The museum has 3 floors and is easy to explore, and there is a stadium right there.
Avenida Paulista
Avenida Paulista is another São Paulo landmark: an iconic avenue, busy, central and full of energy. It also has a mall, so it is a good stop to walk, eat or take a break. We got some souvenir T-shirts for the kids and a mug, which were expensive since it is a tourist area.
Mercado Municipal
The Mercado Municipal is another favourite, and entrance is free. It is an indoor market with restaurants, fruits, meats and local products, and tons of restaurants to choose from. There are so many tropical fruits, especially passion fruit, which is a big part of Brazilian cuisine. We also tried the meat pastels inside.
Where we ate
Trying local food is my favourite thing to do when travelling, and I was so excited for Brazilian meats. At Figueira Rubaiyat, my daughter, who orders pasta at every meal, finally tried my steak, finished it, and told me she likes my food now. It was the best steak I ever had, so I cannot blame her. We also ate at Madero Steakhouse, and yes, another steak for me.
Where to stay in São Paulo
We stayed at a friend’s Airbnb around the Morumbi and Brooklin area. It felt very safe and we walked around a lot. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings: put your phone away as much as possible and do not wear flashy things.
The city: São Paulo is vibrant, cosmopolitan and diverse, with more than 11 million people and lots of greenery. Big city energy means real traffic.
Plugs: Brazil uses type N plugs, and type C in many places. Double check before you travel. None of the adapters I was told to bring fit, and I ended up using the one I use in France. I am glad I brought all of them.
Weather: we went in mid January. It was supposed to be warm, but it rained pretty much every morning and it was a bit chilly. We packed dresses and shorts and ended up needing pants and light sweaters, and the mall only had summer clothes. Always pack extra long sleeves and do not fully rely on the weather app.
Language: even in the tourist areas, English is not widely spoken. My daughter learned a few Portuguese phrases with Duolingo before the trip.
Google Translate: we used it every day, in stores, to order meals and with Uber drivers. Make sure to download the app.
Phone data: if you need data while you are there, Airalo sells eSIMs for Brazil that you can set up before the trip.
Basic Portuguese words we used
Olá / Tchau: hello / goodbye.
Bom dia / Boa tarde / Boa noite: good morning / afternoon / night (used after 6pm).
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Montreal during the summer is amazing, and it is my favourite time to visit. Here are the things to do in Montreal in summer to make the most of it, including the ones kids love.
A few days in Montreal without my kids reminded me how different travel feels when you are only planning for yourself. I love travelling with my kids, and most of my trips are family trips, but family travel and solo travel are 2 completely different experiences, and I enjoy both.
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Planning a Miami day trip with kids? We were in Fort Lauderdale visiting family and decided to spend a day exploring Miami. We booked a bus city tour, and it ended up being a great option for our family. Here is what helped, and what we saw.
Why a bus tour works for a Miami day trip with kids
The tour was about 3.5 hours. Our guide was amazing: he shared interesting facts, answered our questions and made the experience fun.
Miami can get hot, and the air-conditioned bus was a lifesaver.
We went during a World Cup game, which meant road closures, traffic and a lot of time looking for parking. We ended up paying $48 USD for parking for the day.
Bring a small stroller
Bring a small stroller if you have one. Our Babyzen YOYO folded easily and worked well on the bus.
Pack snacks and water
Pack snacks and water for the day.
Let them nap on the go
Like most family trips, sometimes you just nap on the go. Our youngest took her nap on the bus while we kept exploring.
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Planning a visit to the Georgia Aquarium with kids? It is one of the largest aquariums in the world, in Atlanta, USA, and it was a cool experience for us. Here is what to know about tickets, getting there, what to bring and what you will see.
Georgia Aquarium tickets
Tickets cost $54.99 to $69.99 USD per person, depending on the day. Book online in advance for better prices, or buy on site at the machines. Children 2 and under are free.
Getting to the Georgia Aquarium
Parking on site costs $30 USD. You can also take the MARTA subway to Peachtree Center or Civic Center station, which is about a 10 to 15 minute walk.
What to bring with kids
Bags and backpacks are allowed, and small snacks for kids are permitted. There is a paid café on site, so bring a refillable water bottle. Strollers are allowed too.
How long to plan
Plan at least 4 hours.
What you will see at the Georgia Aquarium
There are 9 galleries, with whale sharks, beluga whales, dolphins, manta rays and sharks, penguins, sea lions and otters, and piranhas, alligators, jellyfish and more. The main whale shark tank alone holds 6.3 million gallons of water.
Shows and extra experiences
The live dolphin and sea lion shows are included with your ticket, and you reserve them on the same day.
The paid add-ons include swimming or diving with whale sharks, and animal encounters with dolphins, penguins, beluga whales, sea lions and otters.
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Planning a trip to Tallinn, Estonia with your kids? Tallinn is about a 2 hour ferry ride from Helsinki, easy as a day trip. Here is how we did the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn with kids, what we did in Tallinn on a rainy day, and what helps to know before you go.
How to take the ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn with kids
We took Eckerö Line and left from West Terminal 2, run by the Port of Helsinki. It looks like an airport, big and easy to move through.
Check in closes 30 minutes before departure. The port gets busy, especially in summer, so give yourself time.
The crossing takes about 2 hours, and ferries run several times a day. We booked in advance online. Tallink Silja Line and Viking Line also run the same route.
Ferry prices with kids
Children under 5 travel free, and our round trip came to 40 euro.
What is on board
On board there is a play area for kids, a music area and an arcade, small shops like duty free, lots of food options including a buffet, and lockers to store your bags.
You can also rent a private cabin for the crossing if you want to rest. We skipped it, since the ride is only 2 hours.
What to bring on the ferry
Bring your passport, you need it. We went in July and it was cold, around 15 degrees, and raining, so bring sweaters even in summer.
We planned this day weeks in advance, and then it rained all day and it was chilly, so we adjusted our itinerary and still had a great day.
Our youngest fell asleep in the stroller the moment we got off the ferry and slept for about 4 hours, still jet lagged on day 3 of the trip.
Old Town is a 15 to 20 minute walk from the port, with no public transit needed. We walked everywhere that day.
We walked through Old Town, past Town Hall Square and the cobblestone streets, to St. Olaf’s Church and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and up to Toompea Hill. We ate at Restoran Olde Hansa, a medieval-themed restaurant.
Later we went to the Nautica Keskus mall, had food there, walked around and spent time hanging out. We also checked out the Estonian supermarket inside the mall, and the kids had McDonald’s, where the Happy Meal came with a tea option.
I would definitely want to go back for a longer time. There was so much more to see.
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I did not know what to expect when we went to Helsinki. I just knew Finland had been named the happiest country in the world.
Here is what I know now that I did not know before we went.
Public transport is free with a stroller
The adult pushing the stroller rides free.
It is even better than it sounds, because it also covers the ferry to Suomenlinna, which is a regular transit route rather than a tourist boat.
Suomenlinna costs almost nothing
Suomenlinna is a UNESCO World Heritage sea fortress on 6 islands, about 15 minutes off Helsinki.
A regular Helsinki transit ticket covers the ferry, around 3.30 euro for a single adult. There is no entrance fee for the fortress itself and no tour needed. You can walk it on your own.
The ferry leaves from Market Square and runs every 20 to 40 minutes depending on the season. There is a playground on the island, and several museums, including one built around a real submarine. We ate at Bastion Bistro near the main pier and had salmon pizza.
Half a day is enough to see it properly with kids.
July is cold
We went in July and it was around 15 degrees and raining. Bring sweaters even in summer.
The airport has 2 playgrounds inside it
Helsinki Airport has 2 playgrounds inside, which helps a lot when you have a wait before your flight.
Free museums made for kids
The Helsinki City Museum has a free museum made just for children, dress-up and all.
The Oodi library has a huge kids area, with a café inside the library.
Some restaurants have playgrounds outside
Some restaurants had playgrounds outside, so the kids could go and play.
The public washrooms have tiny toilets for kids
A small thing. My daughter missed those when we got home.
Pick your hotel by the metro
We stayed at Citybox in Kallio, and I chose it because the metro is downstairs and trams 3 and 9 stop outside.
With young kids, the walk between your hotel and the nearest stop shapes your whole day.
The ferry from Helsinki to Tallinn takes about 2 hours and runs several times a day. We took Eckerö Line from West Terminal 2. Tallink Silja Line and Viking Line run the same route.
Children under 5 travel free, and our round trip came to 40 euro.
3 things worth knowing. Check in closes 30 minutes before departure. The port gets busy, especially in summer, so give yourself time. And bring your passport, you need it.
