Travel Planner for PC Windows Archives

As students prepare to return to school this fall, it may look a little different than in the past. Masking and social distancing will replace backpacks and team activities. Many students will be learning from home part or full-time rather …

As you think about planning a student trip, you probably have lots of new questions. Travel looks a little different than it did a year ago! Who could have guessed we’d be worrying about masks, social distancing, and high touchpoints? …

As Labor Day arrives each year, the kid in me pouts just a little. Schools are back in session (at home or in class!), the air is a bit cooler, and I hear the peepers outside at night. The steamy, …

A New Partnership The Global Bandroom and Kaleidoscope Adventures are joining forces to give bands direct access to travel services worldwide. Global Bandroom and host Keith Kelly provide the platform for this inspired new partnership. Both Kaleidoscope Adventures and Global Bandroom …

We miss your kids! We miss their big smiles and wide eyes when they see a new place for the first time. It’s been too long since we’ve seen them perform on an iconic NYC stage or march proudly through …

As educators everywhere scramble for new and exciting ways to teach STEAM, Animado has an incredible event geared specifically for middle and high school students. The Journey into STEAM Pittsburgh is one of the best STEAM programs for teens. What …

As students return to school this fall, many will be without the sports, clubs and music programs that inspire them. There may be no Friday night lights or tattoo of drums with cheering crowds. Budgets have been cut and restrictions …

You’re at the airport with a dying phone. People are spread out on the floor or huddling around outlets trying to squeeze in a quick charge before the flight. No one seems willing to give you a turn. As you …

Kaleidoscope Adventures Welcomes Consultant Melinda Strickland Kaleidoscope Adventures welcomes Melinda Strickland as an expert student travel planning consultant.  Strickland brings nearly 20 years of experience as a student tour planner and an additional 20 years as a classroom teacher to …

Kaleidoscope Adventures Welcomes Consultant George Strickland Kaleidoscope Adventures is pleased to announce that George Strickland will be joining the team as an expert consultant.  Kaleidoscope Adventures is beginning its 27th year as a leader in student performance travel and welcomes …

Kaleidoscope Adventures announced and welcomed Neal Sutton as Senior Tour Consultant leading the sales efforts in the West South-Central United States covering Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana. A tourism industry veteran, Neal Sutton takes a new position as Senior Tour …

If you’re planning a student trip to Orlando, chances are you’ll visit the resident mouse or wizard while there. While we all love the magic or adventure of the theme parks, Orlando has so much more to offer your group. …

Student groups looking for an international trip without the fuss should consider Puerto Rico. It’s a stunningly beautiful region rich in culture and history. Students enjoy a multiethnic experience with foods, music, and attractions without ever leaving the United States. …

Tips for New Teachers Planning a School TripIf you’re a new teacher planning a school trip, you’re probably feeling a little overwhelmed. There are so many questions, so many details to handle and lots of deadlines to meet. The key …

Planning lessons that engage and interest students is hard work. Planning a student trip that does the same can be even harder! Teachers want a destination that’s educational and exciting. Students want a trip that is, well, FUN! Boston checks …

If you’re planning a student trip to Atlanta, you probably know the standard attractions. The World of Coca Cola, Martin Luther King Jr. Historical Site and the Georgia Aquarium are most likely on the itinerary. They’re fantastic stops for students! …

A New York City trip is a rite of passage for many students. Each year brave teachers everywhere plan Broadway shows, tours of the Empire State Building or stops in Times Square. These iconic NYC attractions are must dos! However, …

The student trip is in your hands. You want it to be the most educational, exciting and epic trip anyone’s ever taken! Do you really need a student trip planner to pull it off? Maybe. Maybe not. There’s a lot …

Put away the caps and gowns and start packing suitcases! It’s time for an adventure before the next phase of life begins. Not sure where to start? Here are 5 great graduation trip ideas for students. Take A Cruise Leave …

St. Patrick’s Day Parade- canceled. National Cherry Blossom Festival – canceled. National Memorial Parade- you get the idea. Early 2020 was no friend to marching bands! As we wrap up a less than stellar spring, you may wonder what’s in …

Who could have anticipated a world in which we all look like bandits and communicate with our eyes? It’s a little creepy but evidently face masks are part of our ‘new normal.’ Now summer is here and the days are …

Summer is just around the corner. After weeks of staying at home, many of us are ready to embrace the outdoors and have some fun! But how do we plan summer travel with COVID-19 hanging over our heads? The answer …

Planning a student trip is a BIG job! As a teacher, you already have a million tasks on your plate each day. The logistics of moving kids from Point A to Point B falls somewhere around 749,000… To help make …

The early months of 2020 wreaked havoc with our economy. Many of us are still trying to find our financial footing. When it’s time for your child to travel, you may wonder how to pay for the school trip. We …

Let’s face it. It may take a minute to ease back into travel. As a group leader, you’ve probably already heard the murmurs as you plan your 2021 student trip. Parents are (understandably) hesitant about sending their children far from …

So many of us were looking forward to a spring trip to New York City and a Broadway show. Instead, this vibrant city is focusing its energy on keeping its people well and healthy. While the bright lights of Broadway …

I was visiting with my neighbor yesterday (a street between us, of course). She’s a German immigrant who made her home in our small-town following WWII. We chatted about the state of the world and whined about finding toilet paper. …

Show choirs, lend me your ears (and voices)! If you’re ready to wow the crowds with vocal virtuosity, we have some great ideas for you. Here are 5 amazing venues for show choirs – each guaranteed to hit your high …

You planned an amazing student trip and now you need school board approval to make it happen. The first thing you should know is that EVERY district is different. However, we know a few tips that may simplify the process. …

Great band programs don’t just happen. It takes years to build a successful band program. When our son started 5th grade, he joined the band. We rented a saxophone (with insurance of course) and sent him on his way. By …

As the daily news reports come out, I snuggle deeper into my couch knowing I’ll be here for a while. I’ve already searched new recipes, scoured Facebook for fun things to do and binged my favorite shows. If you’re like …

Three weeks ago, most of us were probably gearing up for spring baseball, track season or the school play. We were spring shopping, going to band concerts and packing for the school trip. We may have even been wishing the …

On Saint Patrick’s Day, we’re all a little bit Irish! It seems only right, then, to celebrate our collective Irish roots in the city that started it all. Lucky bands can march in the NYC Saint Patrick’s Day Parade, the …

Between marching season and spring concerts, the school year has flown by. March is the perfect time to think about upcoming performance and learning opportunities. Music festivals are an outstanding way to fine-tune skills and inspire students. Check out these …

It’s the headline on every news station. It’s the first thing we hear about in the morning and the last thing we see at night. Coronavirus has quickly become a part of our everyday vocabulary. It’s A LOT of information …

As May 2020 unfolds, seniors are ready to celebrate.  This year, those celebrations may look a little different!  In a world of social distancing, graduations may be virtual, drive-through, or even drive-in!  2020 has been presented its seniors with a …

If you’re planning a student trip to Pittsburgh, there’s a ‘whole nother’ list of things to do. Arts, history, technology, sports and more will make your visit a standout. Oh- and you may want to brush up on your “Pittsburghese” …

Pittsburgh is AWESOME! I’m not just saying that because I’m a homegrown Yinzer – it’s an incredible city! There’s so much to see, do (and eat!) in a place where the people make you feel like family. It is a …

Your child (who you are SURE just started kindergarten yesterday) is going on the school trip. You’re certain he’ll never be able to function without you. He’ll lose his money, get lost in the big city or not get enough …

This past summer, my family and I visited our first Topgolf. It was my husband’s idea and we all rolled our eyes when he suggested it. None of us golf – that’s something Pap does on Thursdays with a bunch …

The school year is now on fast forward. You have curriculum to cover, testing to complete and a million tasks waiting on your desk. Oh- and it’s time to think about next year’s class trip! Relax… we’ve got you covered …

Everyone wants to know where their favorite stuff comes from and how it’s made. That’s why factory and museum tours are so much fun! These are our picks for the 5 best factory and museum tours for students in some …

My daughter is obsessed with Kara and Nate. She follows them everywhere and wants to do everything they do. This seems like pretty typical 7th grade behavior, right? Sure, until you realize that Kara and Nate are travel bloggers with …

If you spend any time around teens or tweens, you may have picked up on a new trend. If you’re a child of the late 80s or early 90s, the trend may seem familiar. Little bits of elastic wrapped in …

Not so long ago, my husband traveled with students. Many, MANY days started at 3:00 a.m., or worse, were already well underway at that ungodly hour. I spent countless late nights and early mornings worrying about leaping deer, drunks on …

New Year’s Eve is upon us (hard to believe, right?!) As I reflect on our family’s 2019, I find it’s not the “stuff” that makes it into our highlight reel, but rather the experiences we’ve had. A cross-country trip with …

Sleigh rides, snow and New York City! It’s never too early to start planning your holiday travel. New York City tops the list of fabulous holiday destinations for groups- particularly students. The Big Apple is always humming with activity, but …

Midwest Clinic In just a few short days, band, orchestra and music leaders from around the globe will converge in Chicago for the 73rd annual Midwest Clinic. It’s the biggest music education conference in the world. There’s so much to …

Congress passed the REAL ID Act in 2005. We’ve had 14 years to prepare, yet most of us probably haven’t. Heck, most of us probably don’t even know what REAL ID is! The time for playing ostrich, however, is over. …

Long lines, airport delays, roadways crowded with impatient drivers … tis the season for holiday travel! We’re all anxious to get home for the holidays (or maybe someplace more exotic!) so we can re-connect, relax and rejuvenate. However, sometimes the …

It starts in October. The stress begins to build as I think about what to get my kids (16 and 13) for Christmas. AirPods? There’s $200 I’ll never see again. They’ll be lost before the new year. Gift cards? They …

Ah…. Thanksgiving.  If I close my eyes, I can still smell the globs of paste we used to make Pilgrim hats in elementary school.  My mom always had a turkey in the oven by 5:00 am and the house smelled …

Just when you thought New York City couldn’t get any more awesome, Hudson Yards debuts. Backed by some serious star power and VIPs, Hudson Yards opened to the public on March 15, 2019. As the largest private development in the …

I’m one of those people who gets excited when the stores put up Christmas lights beside pumpkins. I can’t wait for the holiday music to start playing on a loop and I buy wrapping paper in bulk. We get a …

The excitement of bowl season is nearly palpable as late December closes in. Bowl pools are completed in every office, family gathering and on-line, while the big games are hyped on all channels. If you have ever attended one of …

Breathe deeply…. October is here! In my little corner of the world, October means crisp air and brightly colored leaves.  It means smiling pumpkins and straw bales garnished with vibrant mums. It’s costume stress and an endless supply of candy. …

Recently, I sat in on a rather tense PTA meeting at my daughter’s school. The subject causing controversy? Eliminating class field trips. The district wasn’t considering canceling to save money, but rather because parents were concerned that children won’t be …

As far as school music programs go, the band tends to get a lot of attention. Between sporting events, concerts or even competitions, the band enjoys a certain amount of popularity. As a result, the orchestra and its talented musicians …

For some parents, autumn means back to school, crockpot cooking and Friday night lights. For band parents, it means that band competition season has begun! If you are new to the joys and challenges of performance events (or just need …

When our son joined the high school band, I had visions of Friday night lights and a rousing drum beat calling to the crowd at our high school football games. I imagined the tattoo accompanying the cheerleaders and the military …

I’ve just returned from an incredible Costa Rica trip. Having never been to this little slice of Central America, I had no expectations other than to enjoy some uninterrupted family time in a beautiful spot. Wow! Not only did our …

Recently my family and I visited Cedar Point Theme Park in Sandusky, Ohio. It had been a few years since we were last there, and I was anxious to check out the new features as well as some old favorites …

Among my 16-year old’s friend group, 3D printing is a hot topic. Several of his cohorts have their own printers (causing a suspiciously green cast to my son’s usually thick skin). They discuss types of printers and their uses with …

What is the Disney Candlelight Processional? The Disney Candlelight Processional is an inspirational telling of the story of Christmas since 1958. Celebrity guest narrators share the greatest story ever told while surrounded by an array of student choirs and the …

Student groups that fly face unique challenges. Specifically, they must navigate the constantly changing rules and regulations of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). TSA guidelines exist for the safety and security of all air travelers.  This includes those flying with …

You’ve decided to skip the motorcoach and try taking to the air with your student group. What are the rules? What do you need to know to make your flight go as smoothly as possible? Flying with a student group …

If you travel with students, you know how much work goes into planning the perfect trip. When you put your heart and soul into organizing, it’s incredibly frustrating when sign-ups don’t go as planned. You’re not alone. Others (many others!) …

My son is a gifted saxophonist. He shined brightly in his middle school band, as well as in many regional competitions and festivals. Having no musical abilities whatsoever, my husband and I basked in his accomplishments without truly understanding the …

Taking students abroad for a performance or educational trip can be overwhelming. Researching student-friendly destinations, understanding local customs or even dealing with language barriers all play roles in your decision. If it’s your first time, you might want to consider …

You depend on Kaleidoscope Adventures to plan your domestic student travel. A leader in the student travel industry for more than 25 years, you trust KA to make trip planning a breeze. If you’ve ever considered travel abroad, count on Kaleidoscope for …

A colleague and I were chatting the other day about everything and nothing. Eventually we circled around to the millennial obsession with coffee. Drive through any big city or small town, and you’re sure to see that signature green sign. …

In teacher speak, the 4th of July signals the end of summer. Any teacher will tell you that once the fireworks are over, the mind jumps back into planning and prep mode for the next school year. The short summer …

It’s your first time traveling with students. You’re a novice. You want everything to be perfect but have niggling doubts in the back of your mind. Parents all seem to have unsolicited opinions and administration is making sure you understand …

My husband and I love traveling to interesting historical destinations. If there’s a plaque on the side of the road, my husband will ALWAYS pull over to read it. Once the kiddos came along, we found that they don’t necessarily …

Does the sound of a drum corps put a spring in your step? Do you shiver with delight when you hear the strains of a bagpipe? Will Celtic dancing get your toes tapping? If you answer “yes” to any of …

Sometimes the bus ride can seem endless, especially when traveling with students. Sometimes you just need a break. That break becomes vital to your sanity as the middle and high school drama unfolds in a confined space. Sometimes, it comes …

If you’re taking a student group to Orlando, you expect a world of imagined castles, wizards, and giant mice. What you may not expect are the very real experiences of watching a rocket launch, seeing historic launch sites or witnessing …

As the unofficial start of summer, the arrival of Memorial Day conjures up thoughts of picnics, parades and endless days of fun in the sun. It is also a day for honoring those who have given all in service to …

The class trip is a rite of passage for many middle and high school students. The experience of loading up the bus with friends and tasting independence while visiting some far-flung destination is one most will never forget. If you …

The paperwork has come home for the class trip. It’s going to be an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime experience for your child – a chance to explore a bit of the world outside the protective parental umbrella. Truth be told, you are …

There’s nothing like the experience of live theatre. Iconic or cutting-edge shows, thrilling performances and crowds pulsing with energy draw us in like nothing else. It’s a magnificent experience, especially when the theatre is in the heart of New York …

The word “Thanksgiving” conjures up warm childhood memories of paper hand turkeys, feathered headbands, nifty Pilgrim songs, turkey and stuffing. All in all, an accurate representation of our forefathers’ first Thanksgiving, right? Hmmmm…. four hundred years of history tells us …

There’s no better civics lesson than a trip to Washington D.C. There are standard favorites and must-dos… the Smithsonian Museums, monuments and memorials, a walk past 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. However, there’s so much more to experience in our nation’s capital …

New York City reigns supreme as one of our favorite student destinations. There’s so much to see and do, it’s hard to squeeze it all in. Our expert staff has some great group tips for getting the most out of …

Traveling to a new destination with students is exciting… and nerve-wracking! Wouldn’t it be great to have a cheat sheet? Imagine if that cheat sheet came from some of the best student tour professionals in the business. KAndid Advice is …

You have a great idea for a trip. You just KNOW the kids are going to flock to sign up for this epic adventure which will seamlessly tie together your curriculum and probably put you in the running for teacher …

In a world in which “glamping” is an accepted form of outdoor recreation, it’s no surprise that we tend to overpack. We want to be sure we have all the necessary creature comforts in the event of an apocalypse. However, …

We live in a world dominated by apps and easy access. We use apps to find our way around, order food, shop, entertain ourselves, organize schedules, etc. They make our lives easier and so much more convenient. Travel is no …

Every time my husband travels (which is A LOT), I say these four little words as he heads out the door.  I would imagine most people say them.  After all, we want our loved ones to return home better for …

The civil rights movement was a volatile and influential time in our nation’s history.  We study it in our schools, watch movies portraying its leaders and feel its impact on today’s society.  How much more powerful would it be to …

STEM continues to dominate education, and student-friendly destinations are taking notice. Innovative partnerships and curricula are emerging in unexpected places. As you begin to plan your STEM student travel, consider one of these exceptional cities… Cleveland Cleveland has a long-standing …

Most of us have dreamed of being an astronaut at one point or another in our lives. I used to imagine what it would be like to float gracefully in outer space while looking down on the earth. Now my …

Hours of practice. Countless rehearsals. Early mornings and late nights. The performing arts demand dedication. Anyone who has ever been a part of marching band, orchestra, choir, or dance program knows the work is tough but the reward is great. …

Your expectations are high when traveling with students. You expect an outstanding safety record, personal attention and quality transportation and accommodations.  You demand expert trip consultants and great, student-friendly attractions. That’s why it’s so important to choose a reliable tour …

It’s not easy to travel with students. Parent questions will pop up the night before the trip. Suzie will get the stomach flu. Johnny’s reed will break 15 minutes before the performance and he won’t have a spare. He will, …

New Year’s Eve is upon us (hard to believe, right?!) As I reflect on our family’s 2018, I find it’s not the “stuff” that makes it into our highlight reel, but rather the experiences we’ve had. A cross-country trip with …

Long lines, airport delays, roadways crowded with impatient drivers … tis the season for holiday travel! We’re all anxious to get home for the holidays (or maybe someplace more exotic!) so we can re-connect, relax and rejuvenate. However, sometimes the …

December is here and we all know what that means… bright lights, cheerful spirits, fresh pine and THE MIDWEST CLINIC!  Ok.  Most of us probably have a different association with the month of December.  However, those who work with band, …

Those who know me know I have a special place in my heart for two things (husband and children excluded, of course!) – Christmas and Disney World! The anticipation and excitement that precedes each is something I’d like to capture …

Boston. I could write forever about Boston. My brother recently relocated to Beantown and I am positively gleeful! I’m pretty sure my new connection gives me “local” status and therefore lends credence to my rep as an insider. As such, …

If you’re planning a trip to the Smokies, you already know exceptional attractions and outdoor adventures abound.  If you dig a little deeper, though, you’ll uncover some unexpected hidden gems in the Smoky Mountains! Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum in …

The excitement of bowl season is nearly palpable as late December closes in. Bowl pools are completed in every office, family gathering and on-line, while the big games are hyped on all channels. If you have ever attended one of …

Fortune seekers, rejoice! There are a TON of hidden gems in Branson, MO. We know that Branson is a hotbed of top-notch entertainment. It’s also home to some intriguing attractions you may not know exist. Let’s explore some hidden gems …

Travel is more than just the destination. It’s about the journey! It’s finding and appreciating those tucked-away places others may miss. My next few blogs are going to spotlight some lesser known attractions. I’ll share some of the best kept …

Your middle-schooler (who you are SURE just started kindergarten yesterday) is going on the school trip. You are certain he’ll never be able to function without you. He’ll lose his money, get lost in the big city or not get …

Homeschool families and co-ops have a unique opportunity to travel as part of their curricula. Since the best learning happens in the real world, it’s time to get out there and experience it! However, the thought of endless hours in …

Travel has always been an important part of our family life. My husband’s job often requires him to be on the road. When the kids were little, we’d tag along. It was a great opportunity to introduce them to a …

Homeschooling can be hard. Really hard. What once seemed like an exciting adventure may now leave you feeling isolated, drained or unsure of yourself. If you’ve ever felt this way, it may be time to consider a homeschool co-op. What …

The first weeks of school are upon us and the fundraiser forms have arrived. Ugh. I can almost see the neighbors locking their front doors and hiding behind the curtains. Really, there’s only so much cookie dough a person can …

Kaleidoscope Adventures believes that travel is a key piece of a well-rounded education.  It’s a window to the world, promising new experiences, cultures and people. However, many students simply can’t afford to join the class or performance trip. Kaleidoscope Adventures, a …

As the wife of a former student tour operator, I spent many restless nights worrying. Baseball groups heading to spring training in South Carolina or bands making the long drive to Orlando were often the culprits. While it was cost …

While we all love the magic or adventure of theme parks, Orlando has much more to explore. It’s home to some extraordinary, out-of-the-ordinary attractions you probably didn’t even know existed! If you want to know what else you can do …

The class trip is planned and this year it includes a day at the museum. Oh boy. There’s very little that’s more intimidating than taking students into the hallowed halls of a cultural institution. Moving in large peer groups with …

Listen, Can you hear it? It’s the glorious sound of silence! The kids are back to school and the house is no longer vibrating with slamming doors, screeching children or perpetual bickering. It’s a respite to the ears and a …

You’re back. The class trip is over. You can breathe a sigh of relief since all went well and everyone had a fabulous time. You don’t have to think about fundraisers and permission slips again until the fall, except that …

Our summer family road trip commenced anew after a restorative night at the Historic Cameron Trading Post and Motel. I was feeling a bit better because the black interior of the Truckster had been swept clean of crushed neon orange …

Like most, our family’s summer isn’t the relaxing oasis of calm we remember from childhood. I fondly recall days spent splashing in the community pool, walking to my grandma’s house or spending hours cruising the streets of our small town …

In teacher speak, the 4th of July signals the end of summer. Any teacher will tell you that once the fireworks are over, the mind jumps back into planning and prep mode for the next school year. The short summer …

For many (many) years, my husband traveled with students. Our kids learned at an early age that Dad would essentially be gone from March through June each year. Spring is considered high season in the student travel industry. If you’ve …

If you travel with students, you know the time and attention to detail required for a successful itinerary. Timing is critical in the well-oiled machine of student tours. There are places to be, deadlines to meet, schedules to keep and, …

Years ago, as a freshly minted professional working for a non-profit, I was asked to attend a conference in Chicago. My colleagues were jetting off to fabulous locations like Cancun, L.A. or Scottsdale for their conventions, so I was a …

Planning a student trip. Planning a homeschool trip. Planning a scout trip. Planning a family or faith-based trip. If you can check any of these boxes, be sure to check this one: Include a visit to WonderWorks in your plans! …

Growing up in PA, I spent many wonderful summers exploring Gettysburg. It didn’t occur to me that a national treasure was practically in my backyard. I took for granted that a day trip tromping through battlefields was practically a rite …

Believe it or not (see what I did there?!) Ripley’s attractions are great for students.  More than 100+ locations worldwide means that odds are good you’ll find a Ripley’s to meet the needs of your student group trip. What are …

Traveling with students can present some unique challenges for the travel planner, particularly when planning on your own. It can be an overwhelming task fraught with missteps and missed opportunities. However, many of these can be addressed simply by doing …

As May draws to a close, any self-respecting teacher is counting the days, hours and minutes left in the school year. As a former teacher myself, I know this to be an undisputed truth. The last days of the year …

The 2018 Super Bowl was an epic battle between two cities claiming the title of Cradle of Liberty. Since my beloved Steelers weren’t in the running, I was thrilled that the Philadelphia Eagles brought home the championship. As a history …

If you are planning a student group trip, chances are good that your district will require a STEM component. You may even be planning an exclusively STEM trip. If you’re not competing in a robotics competition, where do you begin …

It’s time to plan the all-important class trip. You’ve already conquered the capital and taken a bite out of the Big Apple; now you’re looking for something fresh, fun and fabulous. The Student Youth Travel Association recently named Atlanta a …

Friday night football games- check. Regional marching band festivals- check. Local parade routes, check. What’s left for the marching band? An incredible STARS Performance at Universal Orlando Resort of course! When you’re looking for an amazing way to highlight phenomenal, …

I grew up in a small town in rural Pennsylvania. Home mail delivery did not exist and one of my responsibilities was to walk (or ride my yellow, banana-seated Schwinn) to the post office daily. I dreamed of having one …

Hours of practice. Countless rehearsals. Early mornings and late nights. Participation in the performing arts demands dedication. It requires commitment to learning fundamental and technical skills, while inspiring a love of music, dance and showmanship. Anyone who has ever been …

The term medieval conjures up some pretty powerful images. Princesses, castles, plague (let’s skip that one) and, of course, blade-wielding, powerful and chivalrous knights. It’s enough to make a frequent reader of historical romances like myself swoon! Imagine the pageantry, …

Where to Stay Several years ago, I had the opportunity to visit Nashville, Tennessee. My husband was attending a conference that highlighted Nashville as a great student destination and we stayed at the Gaylord Opryland Resort. Not only did we stay …

Winter this year has been like an old friend that doesn’t recognize that he’s worn out his welcome. It starts out as an unexpected visit, making you feel cozy and nostalgic. As time drags on, you realize you aren’t necessarily …

When my children were small, they loved to spend time at the local pizza entertainment center. It was an overpriced, cramped play space with unappetizing food and the promise of a weeklong illness due to unsanitary equipment. I truly dreaded …

Teenagers love two things: music and eating. I happen to have a teenager (of the male variety) and I can verify that music and eating top his daily to do list. I went from weekly grocery shopping to what feels …

My brother and his wife recently visited Spain, a spectacular country rich in history and culture. Upon their return, we were treated to an hour-long PowerPoint presentation highlighting the trip. One hour. One very long hour. Una larga hora. It …

When my children were in elementary school, they had a bus driver named Mr. Ernie. While most drivers recognize that young children have some anxiety around these first school experiences- particularly riding the bus- Mr. Ernie was not so enlightened. …

Bright sunshine, warm sand and the relaxing sounds of the ocean that’s my idea of a perfect vacation. Roadside markers, historical sites and guided tours that’s my husband’s idea of a perfect vacation! Fortunately, our visit to Coastal Virginia met …

Doesn’t it always seem that the very best moments in life are accompanied by music? Making that life-altering trip down the aisle to Jeremiah Clarke’s Trumpet Voluntary, listening to the crowd roar to life as the marching band plays the …

I remember it vividly. On Christmas Day 2003, I gave my husband his favorite present ever. I had an active toddler at the time, so I was perpetually exhausted and evidently not thinking clearly when I bestowed this wondrous gift …

Last year, I sat in on a rather tense PTA meeting at my daughter’s school. The subject causing controversy? Eliminating class field trips. The district wasn’t considering cancelling to save money, but rather because parents were concerned that they may …

The decorations are packed away and the holiday bills are arriving by bulk mail. Happy New Year! If you are an educator, you know exactly what the new year brings a crush of responsibilities and deadlines! The school year is …

If the first five attractions don’t keep me busy enough when I finally get to the Smokies, these next five certainly will! Here are five more awesome things to do in the Smoky Mountains. Family Fun On the must-do list …

Full disclosure, much to my regret and dismay, I have never visited the Smoky Mountains. My husband has been there (many times), my family has been there and my travel industry colleagues have been there.  My kids friends have been …

Teachers, homeschool co-ops, scout groups, history buffs, lend me your ears! If you want to inspire, educate or simply love this wonderful nation, plan a trip to its capital. There’s no better civics lesson than a student trip to Washington …

The first time I visited Boston, I was fresh out of college and working for a non-profit. I directed a program in conjunction with public school librarians and had the opportunity to travel with them throughout the country. I distinctly …

Last summer, our family was planning a series of quick jaunts. We wanted to jump in the car and spend a few days somewhere we’d never been! As we tossed around ideas, my husband suggested Branson, Missouri. I snickered a …

I ran to my local grocery store on Tuesday for some last-minute Halloween candy. My monster munchies bowl had been filled since last week, but let’s face it, a week is a long time. My munchies were seriously depleted! I …

When my oldest child left for his first week of sleep-away camp, I worried. I worried that he wouldn’t eat well, that he would get a sunburn or be sick, or that he wouldn’t change his underwear (turns out that …

The dreaded itinerary is… As I have previously stated, my family has a deep and abounding love for venturing into the unknown! Our 10 year old daughter begins with the globe (even though most our travel is in the continental …

I have the good fortune to be married to a man who LOVES to travel. He has given me two children who LOVE to travel. It seems we are in a perpetual state of planning travel! We learned long ago …

You’re on a roll now! You have a solid purpose for traveling with your group and know exactly when you want to go; now you need to pinpoint WHERE you want to go.  As you begin group travel planning, choose …

When I was 13, our church youth group decided to take a trip to Cape May, NJ. We thought it would be a great bonding experience and great fun, since most of us hadn’t yet traveled beyond the borders of …

There’s a saying that goes, It’s the little things that make a BIG difference. Although it’s a cliche, it is often very true, especially when planning student performance trips. The team at Kaleidoscope Adventures goes the extra mile when planning …

Did you know that student group travel to Orlando, Florida can be both exciting and educational? Orlando is not only a great destination that provides fun for middle, junior high and high school student groups, but can be educational too, …

Hue and Cry Traveling is about enjoying new experiences; trying new food, seeing different sights, and immersing our family in local cultures and adventures. Choosing a hotel, however, can cause indecisiveness between the regular franchises or being brave and picking …

Located in the Ozark Mountain city of Branson, MO, you will find the Dutton Theatre Complex along the famous 76 Strip. Branson has a population of over 11k people and hosts a whopping 56k theatre seats which equals five seats for every …

The Philadelphia Thanksgiving Parade is the oldest in the country and held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This remarkable parade began in 1920 and was produced by Gimbel Brothers Department Store to signify the arrival of Santa Clause. The parade is currently produced by 6abc and sponsored by Dunkin Donuts. …

The possibilities for your next adventures are endless! Your talent and knowledge have no boundaries, so why should your travel plans? Your trusted partner in domestic trips, Kaleidoscope Adventures, is now taking your group abroad! Imagine performing in Ireland’s St. …

One of the hardest things about high school graduation is leaving the security of home and school and going in a different direction than your friends. Disney World has created a spectacular island party, Disney Grad Nite H2O, which will …

My family recently stayed at the Park Inn on Maingate Lane in Orlando, Florida and had an awesome visit! If you are considering Orlando as a vacation destination and looking for a great place to stay, Park Inn offers outstanding amenities. Location Location is …

Music is an essential part of education and finding the right competition arenas for your high school band, orchestra, or choir can be challenging. Festivals of Music are held in wonderful destinations across the country and provide exciting and professional festival …

In 1998, Scholastic Corporation released the first book of the Harry Potter series, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, in the U.S. The popular books are currently the #1 best-selling series of all time with distributions equaling over 500 million. …

Universal Studios Florida and Universal’s Islands of Adventure go into lock down mode as they host two fabulous graduation parties: Gradventure for middle school students and Grad Bash for high school seniors. Both parks are open for the events and students move safely between …

The Fairy Godmother waves her magic wand and the spirit of Christmas explodes in a twinkling winter wonderland setting! Since 1958, the Disney Candlelight Processional has been telling the inspirational story of Christmas. Celebrity guest narrators share the greatest story …

Marching Band Season Beautiful colors, crisp air, and shorter days represent the fall season for many people. For band kids and their families, it also means countless practice hours, football Fridays, and competition Saturdays! Directors have worked tirelessly with their …

Over ninety years ago, the Macy’s chain of department stores accidentally began the holiday spectacular of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Today, approximately 3.5 million people line the streets of Manhattan, New York every year on Thanksgiving Day to watch …

When was the last time you saw an alligator in its natural habitat? Though the area has been around forever, WILD FLORIDA is the newest attraction in Central Florida and certainly the best way to get an authentic taste of …

Cruising with students is a great way to experience the world beyond the classroom. However, planning a student cruise can be a BIG job! We have a few tips on how to plan your cruise that might make it a …