**Episode 162: Lake City, Florida – A Perfect Family Travel Destination**

**Special Guest: Konnie Patke**

**Show Notes:**

- Overview of Lake City, Florida as a family-friendly travel destination

- Introduction of special guest Konnie Patke

- **Why Lake City Stands Out for Families**

- Family-friendly atmosphere with a blend of natural beauty, history, and community events

- **Must-See Attractions and Activities**

- Alligator Lake Park: Perfect for picnics, wildlife watching, and outdoor fun

- Lake City Columbia County Historical Museum: Offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history

- Annual Olustee Battle Festival: Features historical reenactments and family activities

- **Family-Friendly Events and Festivals**

- Olustee Battle Festival (February): Historical reenactments, arts and crafts, live entertainment

- Gateway City Craft Beer & Wine Festival: Family-friendly with various activities

- Christmas on the Square Festival: Holiday fun for the whole family

- **Natural Attractions**

- Ichetucknee Springs State Park: Tubing, snorkeling, hiking opportunities

- Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park: Beautiful gardens, nature trails, cultural exhibits

- **Family-Friendly Accommodations**

- Cozy cabins at local campgrounds

- Family-friendly hotels with pools and amenities for all budgets

- **Historical and Cultural Landmarks**

- Lake City Columbia County Historical Museum: Educational exhibits and local history

- Olustee Battlefield Historic State Park: Educational programs and Civil War battle reenactments

- **Dining Options for Families**

- Marion Street Bistro and Brew House: Family-friendly atmosphere and diverse menu

- Halpatter Brewing Company: Local flavors and welcoming environment for all ages

- **Educational Activities and Experiences**

- Ichetucknee Springs State Park: Educational programs on local ecosystem

- Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park: Insights into Florida’s cultural heritage

- **Local Tips and Hidden Gems**

- Falling Creek Falls: Beautiful waterfall and peaceful setting

- Lake DeSoto Farmers Market: Fresh produce, local crafts, and a community vibe

- Encouragement to explore Lake City for your next family vacation

- Reminder to subscribe to The Family Vacationer Podcast for more travel tips and destination guides

- Thank you to Konnie Patke for sharing insights about Lake City, Florida

Tune in to Episode 162 to discover all that Lake City, Florida has to offer for your next family adventure!

Show Notes: Episode 161 - Discovering Macon, GA

**Hosts:** Rob and Traci

**Special Guest:** Gary Wheat, President and CEO of Visit Macon

**Episode Summary:**

In this exciting kickoff to our I-75 series, we dive into the vibrant city of Macon, GA, with the expert insights of Gary Wheat, President and CEO of Visit Macon. Rob and Traci explore what makes Macon a fantastic family travel destination, offering a perfect stop between Atlanta and Orlando. From unique attractions to hidden gems, this episode is packed with everything you need to know for an unforgettable family trip to Macon.

**Key Topics Covered:**

1. **Unique Family Attractions in Macon:**

- Gary Wheat shares some of the must-see attractions that make Macon a great destination for families. Discover the historic sites, museums, and engaging activities that await in this charming city.

2. **Family-Friendly Events and Festivals:**

- Learn about the various family-friendly events and festivals that take place in Macon throughout the year. From music festivals to cultural celebrations, there’s something for every family to enjoy.

3. Outdoor Activities and Parks:

- What are the best outdoor activities and parks in Macon for families? Whether you’re looking for a scenic hike or a beautiful picnic spot, Macon has plenty of options for nature lovers.

4. Macon’s Rich Musical History:

- Dive into Macon’s musical heritage with Gary’s insights on the city’s music museums and historical sites. Perfect for music-loving families, these spots offer a deep dive into the local music scene.

5. Local Restaurants and Food Experiences:

- Discover the best family-friendly dining spots in Macon. We highlight popular local restaurants and unique food experiences that families should not miss.

6. Family-Friendly Accommodations:

- Get tips on the best places to stay in Macon with amenities tailored for children. Whether you’re looking for a hotel with a pool or a cozy bed and breakfast, Macon has plenty of family-friendly options.

7. Hidden Gems in Macon:

- Gary shares some of Macon’s lesser-known attractions and hidden gems. These spots are perfect for families looking to explore off-the-beaten path and discover something new.

8. Macon’s National Park:

- Find out the status of the national park in Macon and what families can expect when visiting. Gary provides details on the activities and experiences available at the park.

9. Seasonal Activities and Attractions:

- Learn about the seasonal activities and attractions in Macon that are particularly fun for families during the summer and winter months. From holiday events to summer festivals, Macon offers year-round entertainment.

- Don’t forget to subscribe to The Family Vacationer and leave a review!

**Resources Mentioned:**

- [Visit Macon Website](https://www.visitmacon.org)

- [The Family Vacationer Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thefamilyvacationer)

Connect with Us:

- Send us your travel stories and questions: rob@thefamilyvacationer.live

**Subscribe to the Podcast:**

- [Apple Podcasts](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-family-vacationer)

- [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/show/thefamilyvacationer)

- [Google Podcasts](https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mYW1pbHl2YWNhdGlvbmVyLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz)

Stay tuned for our next episode, and happy travels! 🌍✈️

Episode 151 - Keeping Up with Family Vacation Photos Using Mylio

My sincere apologies to David and Alex at Mylio for the issue with our interview recording. Look for Mylio's CEO to be on the Family Vacationer soon!

**Episode Summary:**

In this episode of The Family Vacationer, we dive into the ultimate solution for managing, organizing, and sharing your family vacation photos—Mylio. Host Rob takes us through the features and benefits of Mylio, making it easier than ever to keep track of your precious travel memories. Whether you're struggling with photo clutter or looking for efficient ways to share your experiences, this episode is packed with useful tips and insights.

**Key Topics Covered:**

1. **Introduction to Mylio:**

- Overview of Mylio as a photo management tool

- Importance of organizing family vacation photos

2. **Organization Features:**

- Automatic organization with SmartTags and QuickCollections

- Manual organization with albums, folders, and keywords

- Maintaining current folder organization upon import

3. **Search Capabilities:**

- Dynamic search using keywords, ratings, people, map locations, recent imports, and pinned searches

- QuickFilters for narrowing down search results

4. **Editing Tools:**

- Control over color, exposure, composition, and more

- Easy-to-use tools for cropping, removing red-eye, and enhancing photos

5. **Viewing Options:**

- Life calendar for browsing by time

- Map view for location-based photo exploration

- People view for finding specific family members in photos

6. **Sharing Made Easy:**

- Creating semi-private albums for group sharing

- Universal Clipboard for easy photo sharing across applications

- SafeShare feature to remove personal information before posting online

7. **Storage Solutions:**

- Optimizing photos to fit up to 15 times more pictures on mobile devices

- Mylio Drive for accessing optimized images on the go

8. **Security and Backup:**

- Secure syncing and redundant Vault backups to protect photos

9. **Benefits of Mylio Photos+:**

- AI-powered organization tools

- Compatibility with Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, and iPadOS devices

- Connecting unlimited devices with Mylio Photos+

- Cloud independence with optional cloud storage as a Vault drive

- Don't forget to subscribe to The Family Vacationer and leave a review!

**Resources Mentioned:**

- [Mylio Website](https://www.mylio.com)

- [The Family Vacationer Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thefamilyvacationer)

**Connect with Us:**

- Follow us on Instagram: [@thefamilyvacationer](https://www.instagram.com/thefamilyvacationer)

- Send us your travel stories and questions: rob@thefamilyvacationer.live

**Subscribe to the Podcast:**

- [Apple Podcasts](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-family-vacationer)

- [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/show/thefamilyvacationer)

- [Google Podcasts](https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mYW1pbHl2YWNhdGlvbmVyLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz)

Next week we are starting a series on towns along the I-75 Drive between Atlanta and Orlando. So many families make that drive and miss so much along the way. Don't miss next week!

Exploring the origins, impact, and future of resort fees in the travel industry.

Episode Highlights

- **Introduction to Resort Fees:**

- Overview of the episode's focus on the frustration caused by resort fees.

- Brief history of how resort fees started in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

- **Historical Context:**

- Initial introduction in popular tourist destinations like Las Vegas and Hawaii.

- Expansion into more hotels and cities over the decades.

- Evolution from covering amenities to becoming an additional revenue stream.

- **Consumer Impact:**

- How resort fees disrupt budget planning for families.

- Lack of transparency leading to consumer frustration and legal scrutiny.

- Federal Trade Commission's role in investigating deceptive pricing practices.

Key Discussion Points

- **Why Hotels Charge Resort Fees:**

- Bundling of amenities and services.

- Revenue generation without raising advertised room rates.

- Market positioning and competitive pricing strategies.

- Offsetting operating costs.

- Avoiding commission fees paid to third-party booking platforms.

- **Types of Hotels Charging Resort Fees:**

- Originally resorts and destination hotels in tourist-heavy areas.

- Expansion to urban hotels in cities like New York and San Francisco.

- No universal regulation, but emphasis on transparency and disclosure.

- **Consumer Advocacy and Legal Actions:**

- Lawsuits against deceptive practices.

- Increased consumer awareness leading to clearer disclosures.

- Federal and local regulations requiring all mandatory fees to be disclosed upfront.

Tips for Travelers

- **Avoiding Resort Fees:**

- Research and contact hotels before booking.

- Book through channels that include fees in the total price.

- Look for packages or promotions that waive resort fees.

- Confirm fee details before arrival.

- Negotiate or express concerns during check-in.

- Review your bill at check-out and dispute unauthorized charges if necessary.

Legislation Update

- **No Hidden Fees Act:**

- Supported by the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA).

- Aims to establish a single standard for transparent fee displays.

- Passed the House and awaits Senate approval.

- Potential impact on competitive pricing and hotel practices.

Personal Insights

- **Rob's Perspective:**

- The impact of resort fees on travel agents.

- Potential pitfalls of federal regulation.

- The importance of a comprehensive standard for fee transparency.

- Statistics from the AHLA indicating the prevalence and cost of resort fees.

- Recap of the history, current practices, and potential future of resort fees.

- Encouragement for listeners to stay informed and proactive in avoiding hidden fees.

- Thanks for tuning in to Episode 159 of The Family Vacationer.

- Invitation to join the next episode for more travel insights and tips.

Additional Resources

- **Links to Relevant Articles and Websites:**

- Federal Trade Commission guidelines on resort fees.

https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/foia/frequently-requested-records/hotel-pricingresort-fee

- AHLA's stance on resort fees and related legislation.

https://www.ahla.com/news/house-passes-no-hidden-fees-act-major-ahla-legislative-priority

Have Show Ideas? Contact Rob at rob@thefamilyvacationer.live

Episode 158: Navigating Vacation with Your ADHD Teen

**Introduction:**

- Join hosts Rob and Traci as they dive into the intricacies of vacationing with an ADHD teen, featuring special guest Dr. Emily King.

**Discussion Points:**

1. **Creating a Supportive Environment:**

- Understanding the unique needs and strengths of your ADHD teen.

- Tailoring the vacation setting to accommodate those needs.

2. **Preparing for Structure and Routines:**

- Effective strategies for familiarizing your teen with vacation schedules.

- Implementing routines without sacrificing flexibility.

3. **Planning Activities:**

- How to choose activities that align with your teen's interests and manage ADHD symptoms.

- Balancing excitement with potential sensory overload.

4. **Managing Expectations:**

- Preparing yourself as a parent for your teen's behavior during vacation.

- Adjusting expectations and fostering understanding.

5. **Incorporating Breaks and Downtime:**

- Importance of incorporating downtime to prevent overwhelm.

- Strategies for recognizing and managing overstimulation.

6. **Recognizing Warning Signs:**

- Identifying signs of overstimulation or distress in your teen.

- De-escalation techniques and fostering emotional regulation.

7. **Addressing Meltdowns and Sensory Challenges:**

- Effective ways to handle potential meltdowns or sensory issues while traveling.

- Creating a supportive environment for your teen.

8. **Empowering Teen Ownership:**

- Encouraging your teen to take charge of their ADHD management during vacation.

- Building independence and confidence.

9. **Accommodations and Adjustments:**

- Necessary accommodations in travel plans to support neurodiversity.

- Making adjustments to ensure a smooth vacation experience.

10. **Managing Impulsivity and Hyperactivity:**

- Strategies for managing impulsivity and hyperactivity in unfamiliar environments.

- Creating structure to minimize challenges.

11. **Encouraging Positive Communication:**

- Promoting open communication and problem-solving between parent and teen.

- Building a supportive and understanding relationship.

12. **Transitioning Back to Routine:**

- Strategies for helping your teen ease back into their regular routine post-vacation.

- Minimizing post-vacation stress and adjustment difficulties.

- Dr. Emily King provides valuable insights and strategies for families navigating vacation with an ADHD teen, emphasizing understanding, flexibility, and support. Tune in for more tips and advice on the next episode! Follow Dr. Emily at learnwithdremily.com

Also make sure and listen to Episodes 127: The Post Vacation Let Down, 79: Traveling with Neurodiverse Children, 34: Managing Expectations of the Family Vacation

An end of an Era on the Family Vacationer.

Exploring Columbia, SC with the Family Vacationer Podcast! Join us as we uncover the hidden gems and family-friendly adventures in this beautiful southern city with special guest, Kelly Barbrey! Let the journey begin!

Tune in to Episode 155 of the Family Vacationer podcast with special guest, Jacob Fedosky! Discover the game-changer in family travel hygiene: Step 'n Wash! This episode dives into how this innovative step empowers children and those with physical disabilities to wash their hands independently. Say goodbye to awkward lifting and hello to convenience and dignity on the go! Don't miss out on this must-listen for every family adventurer! #StepNWash #FamilyTravel #Podcast #Innovation #HygieneOnTheGo