Guest Post: Offshore Kayak Fishing is the New Trend

This is a guest post by Tom Miller, a kayak fishing enthusiast who also writes for The Kayak Critic.

Fishing is a favorite hobby for many of us, but it is also an important industry to work in. No matter, people nowadays are going crazy over this new growing idea of kayak fishing. Previously, only a handful of people can be seen with a kayak moving offshore for hunting their prey. Now, dozens of people can be seen embracing the adventure. Not to mention proper seminars are being conducted to educate the fishers to help them explore in a better way.

This method of fishing has been adapted for several reasons. Kayaking itself allows our muscles to tone. While paddling in the water, one strokes up for miles which helps our arms, legs, and our whole body to find the rhythm. Kayak fishing is quite a workout and will you a fresh and delicious meal afterward, which makes things more interesting. Kayaking also keeps your heart in good health. But most of the time offshore fishing is a significant relaxation method used by many of us in this fast-paced time. In many parts of the world, offshore kayaking has proved to be substantial for team building exercises.

Building the team up is one reason for offshore kayaking, but at the same time, it also helps us with self-reliance. Isn't it amazing how just one outdoor activity can do so much for you? Although it isn't as easy as it sounds there are a few tips and tricks you should keep in mind:

1. Take your first note: offshore kayaking is not for beginners, and practice is what makes a person perfect.
2. Second, of course, to choose the right kayak for your adventure. Fishing kayaks are different. Don't go in the middle of the sea with a kayak that has no place to put the fishing gears.
3. Third, nature is beautiful, but it is dangerous, too. The sea is no joke. Put your life jacket on and keep yourself safe from the elements in the sea. You don't want things to go out of hand. And to be on the safe side, do take an emergency communication device with you, because your safety comes first.
4. Fourth, plan before your trip down the sea, ask a local meteorologist for details. This active-mindedness will help you be on time for the last wave to go by, as that is your time to start doing what you came to do.
5. Down the lane is the knowledge of weight distribution. As I mentioned earlier, fishing kayaks are different, and if you don't put the weight balanced in the center, you will end up hurting yourself every time a wave breaks onto you.
6. Lastly, do not forget to be visible to others while you are out. You do not want bigger boats to overlook you. In daylight, a safety flag from a distance can make you visible to others. And at night time, use a 360-degree light for yourself.

Guest Post: Best Places in the United States to Travel with Your Family

This is a guest post by Danny, a young dad and a blogger who loves writing about parenting topics over at his blog MyParentingJournal.com.

 

Every family looks forward to enjoying a relaxing vacation in a lively destination surrounded by a cool breeze and a beautiful environment. When looking for a family vacation destination, there are several factors you should consider. These include an amusement park, zoo, beaches, museums and water parks among other factors. These are some of the best places to visit in the US with your family.

Kauai, Hawaii

Hawaii is generally a great place for vacationing and there are lots of cities, beaches, and towns to visit. However, Kauai is one of the top places to visit in Hawaii for its beautiful weather, fewer crowds, and affordability. The city has magical blue waters and clear skies cast in the horizon that provide an amazing sight to see especially when sailing out in the sea. There is an abundant number of condo rentals that are family friendly and affordable too. There are lifeguarded beaches, family oriented activities, and short driving distances to and from destinations. While in Kauai with your family, go for zip-lining activities in the jungle or enjoy a relaxing bike ride along coastal paths all over the city.

Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon is an incredibly inspiring site to visit with your family. While in this destination, there are lots of activities you can engage in. The Rim Trail in the Canyon is one of the best and most lively sights to visit and see while in the Grand Canyon. The only thing to note about visiting the Grand Canyon during summer and spring is that you need to book your accommodation in advance. This is because there are lots of people who visit this place around these months, thereby making last minute accommodation booking quite hard.

Myrtle Beach, Carolina

Myrtle Beach is an impressive 60-mile beach stretch characterized by family-friendly vacation spots, and budget-friendly rentals. The beach prides itself in having amazing bodysurfing waters, a carnival-like atmosphere, and a mile-long promenade that you can walk your kids or pets along. There are amazing waterslides, water parks, and amusement parks. Just like the Grand Canyon, it is good to plan ahead for your visit as during summer, there are thousands of people who visit the beach around this time.

Washington D.C.

If you have ever wished to take your family to the power seat of the U.S, then Washington D.C. is the best place to visit for a family vacation. The best thing about Washington is that most museums and top attraction sites like the White House are free to visit. Some of the popular monuments that you can visit while in D.C. for a family vacation include the Lincoln Memorial, the National (World War II) Memorial, and other monuments. If you want to save on your accommodation costs while in the D.C, you can book early or opt for alternative accommodation in Arlington, Virginia.

Outer Banks

Outer Banks in North Carolina are yet other beautiful destinations to visit as a family. Found along the state’s shores, these banks draw a lot of families from all over the country as well as across the globe. While in North Carolina, make sure you visit other attraction sites like Wright Brothers (National) Memorial. You can bring your pets along too and book a pet-friendly accommodation facility to stay in during your vacation.

Honolulu, Oahu

Honolulu is famed for its beautiful and child-friendly beaches that are not only attractive to children but adults as well. There are lots of activities that children can engage in in Honolulu including swimming with dolphins, snorkeling, and visiting the Hawaiian Adventure Park. The best thing about Honolulu is that there are very many hotels set along the shores and in close proximity to key attraction sites. This negates the need for seeking transport means while in Honolulu for a family vacation. Most of the attraction sites and amazing sights in this destination are known for their timeless appeal. There is a slew of theme parks, adventure parks, and other children-friendly sites spread all over the island.

Wrapping up

Generally, when looking for the best place to visit with your family, you need to look at more than what the kids will enjoy. You should also consider your interests as well as those of your spouse too. In addition to this, you should also consider the amount of money you are willing to spend on the vacation. This will make it possible for you to cut cost where necessary and focus on having an enjoyable vacation.

Guest Post: A Selection of the Cutest Children's Passport Accessories

Guest post written by Jeremy Cameron

To instill wanderlust in your own children must be one of the greatest gifts you can give them. Sure, it is easier to travel on your own. After all, you are responsible only for yourself. Travelling with children takes an advanced degree in travel planning, endless patience, numerous wipes, and plenty of doodads to keep them occupied during a long flight. But it is also infinitely rewarding to see the world through the eyes of a child. We have put together a selection of some the cutest children’s passport accessories for the little and the not-so-little travellers in your life.

Cheap and cheerful. Sometimes cheap and cheerful will do the trick. If you have a younger child Minions, Hello Kitty or Disney’s Cars passport covers are bound to be a hit. If your child is older and they want something cooler, you cannot go wrong with any of the superhero passport covers (be it Captain America, Batman or Superman). These are easy to find and buy over eBay or Amazon.

Handmade. If you are in the market for a cute children’s passport cover, but you would prefer something that is a bit more unique, etsy is a great resource. These passport covers are handmade from a durable fabric that will protect your child’s passport. They are also colourful, cheerful and a bit whimsical – your child is bound to love them.

Image via etsy

OTT. Why should Prince George and Princess Charlotte be the only ones to receive the royal treatment? If nothing but the best will do for your child, you can opt for the Baby Royal crown passport holder. It is made from gorgeous durable leather with a crown motif. Your baby’s name and surname will be added to the front of the passport holder for that finishing touch.

Image via Not On The High Street

Personalized. Sometimes it can be a bit difficult to come up with an original gift idea for babies and toddlers. Especially if you want to find a gift that will become a keepsake. Let’s face it—toys usually get abandoned fairly quickly. How about this gorgeous leather look passport holder and luggage tag? The baby’s name can be inscribed on the front of the passport holder to make it more personalised.

Image via Not On The High Street

Quirky. Bombay Duck is another fabulous option if you are on the look out for the perfect gift for the little adventurer in your life. Their designs are charming and whimsical. They offer a selection of passport holder and luggage tag sets that come presented in gorgeous gift boxes.

Image via Bombay Duck

Child passport requirements

If you plan to travel with your children they will require a child passport. Up to 1998, children were able to be included in their parents’ passports. However from 1998 onwards all children travelling with their family must have their own child passport regardless of their age. Child passport is valid for a period of 5 years.

In order to be eligible for a child passport your child should be under 16 years of age and a British citizen, a British overseas territories citizen or a British overseas citizen. If your child is close to their 16th birthday, you will have to apply for their first adult passport. 

You will also have to submit two photos of your child together with your child’s passport application. Countersignatory should fill out section 10 of your child’s passport application and sign one of the photos. This is done to confirm the child’s identity, and also to confirm they know the person who made the passport application on behalf of the child. The countersignatory should not be closely related but someone who knows you in a professional capacity (such as the child’s doctor or a teacher for example).

Guest Post: Tunisian Retreats

Here's Mustachio's first guest post written by Alex Siborn.

If you're thinking about a family getaway this year, why not consider a holiday in Tunisia? As family holidays go, this gorgeous corner of North Africa is alive with so many wonderful family holiday experiences.

Source

For kids, Tunisia's coastline is perfect bucket and spade territory. There is an abundance of soft golden sands and shallow sparkling shores which makes it ideal for little paddling feet. Watch as your kids splash about in the shallows, sink their toes into silky sands for the first time or play happily under the shade of a parasol. Tunisia's coastal regions are well geared up for families and many hotels in the key holiday resorts offer all inclusive accommodation with fantastic on-site facilities.

In the main resorts like Sousse or Port el Kantaoui you'll find plenty of family-friendly activities and child-friendly hotels. Many hotels here are sprawling affairs with a variety of pools, entertainment and on-site restaurants with extensive menus (perfect for little fussy eaters). There are plenty of kids' clubs too, offering a full programme of fun activities, games and sports lessons for children of all ages.

Outside of the hotel you'll find plenty of things to see and do. Soak up the Tunisian culture by visiting the local towns and villages, or try your hand at haggling in a local market. Who knows, you might even come away with a bargain! There are many different watersports on offer, and boat trips are one water-based activity that never fails to keep the whole family entertained. Play at being Jack Sparrow and head out into the Mediterranean on a fun-filled 'pirate ship', or try out the submarine-style boats that take you beneath the waves to explore the Med's stunning underwater world and marine life.

Whatever type of family holiday you're after, Tunisia is a fantastic holiday destination with plenty to see, do and experience for kids of all ages, and for holidaymakers from all walks of life.