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Santa Margherita Ligure Travel Guide: Explore, Stay, and Savor

Santa Margherita Ligure is a picturesque seaside town on the Italian Riviera. It seamlessly combines natural beauty, rich history, and lively culture. This seaside gem, frequently eclipsed by its glitzy neighbor Portofino, offers visitors a more sedate yet no less enchanted getaway.

Santa Margherita Ligure offers experiences that will last a lifetime, whether you’re organizing a family holiday, a romantic retreat, or a single excursion. This guide will help you make the most of your trip, from discovering hidden treasures and enjoying real Italian food to unwinding in opulent lodgings.

The Charm of Santa Margherita

Santa Margherita Ligure’s history dates back to Roman times, but it grew as a fishing village and trading port during the Middle Ages. Its strategic location on the Ligurian coast made it a coveted territory, leading to periods of Genoese rule and subsequent influences. Today, Santa Margherita Ligure retains its charming maritime character while embracing its role as a sophisticated tourist destination.

    • Location and Accessibility: Situated between Portofino and Rapallo, Santa Margherita Ligure is easily accessible by train, car, or boat. Its proximity to Genoa and other major Italian cities makes it a convenient stop on any Italian itinerary.
    • Atmosphere and Vibe: The town exudes a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, blending locals and tourists enjoying the beautiful surroundings. The harbor is the heart of the town, bustling with activity and offering stunning coastline views.

Exploring Santa Margherita Ligure – Must-See Attractions and Activities

Santa Margherita Ligure is a charming destination packed with vibrant sights and experiences. There’s something for everyone, from its lively harbor to serene gardens and historical landmarks.

    • The Harbor (Porto di Santa Margherita Ligure)

The harbor is the lively heart of the town. Colorful houses line the waterfront, with fishing boats and luxury yachts creating a stunning contrast. Stroll along the promenade, enjoy gelato, and watch the vibrant activity. The harbor is also a hub for boat trips, making it a must-visit spot for photos, dining, or relaxing.

    • Villa Durazzo

Villa Durazzo is a stunning 17th-century villa with exquisite interiors and lush gardens. Its well-preserved rooms often host art exhibits, and the gardens provide breathtaking coastal views. This peaceful spot beautifully blends history, art, and nature.

    • Santa Margherita Ligure Church (Basilica di Santa Margherita d’Antiochia)

This Baroque church is a masterpiece of art and history. Its ornate exterior, frescoes, and stained-glass windows reflect the town’s rich religious heritage. The church offers a peaceful escape in the town center.

    • Beaches and Swimming

Santa Margherita Ligure’s beaches range from sandy shores to pebbly coves, which are ideal for swimming or snorkeling. The crystal-clear water and Mediterranean sun create a perfect setting for relaxation. Beachside cafes and restaurants make spending the day by the sea easy.

    • Boat Trips to Portofino and Cinque Terre

The harbor offers boat trips to nearby Portofino and the scenic Cinque Terre. Both destinations showcase the beauty of the Italian Riviera with colorful villages, stunning cliffs, and panoramic sea views.

    • Hiking and Nature Walks

The hills around Santa Margherita Ligure feature hiking trails with incredible coastal and countryside views. Whether looking for a strenuous hike or a more relaxed stroll, these routes allow you to experience the area’s natural beauty.

    • Shopping

The town center has a mix of high-end boutiques and local artisan shops. Santa Margherita Ligure offers a delightful shopping experience, from leather goods to handcrafted souvenirs.

Where to Stay in Santa Margherita Ligure: Accommodation Options

Santa Margherita Ligure offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences:

    • Luxury Hotels: Several hotels offer elegant accommodations, stunning views, and top-notch amenities.
    • Boutique Hotels: Boutique hotels provide a more intimate and personalized experience, often featuring unique design and character.

For more options and detailed recommendations, visit the official Santa Margherita Ligure hotels guide. This resource highlights a wide range of accommodations, from charming boutique inns to luxurious seaside resorts, ensuring you find the perfect stay for your trip.

    • Bed and Breakfasts: Bed & breakfasts offer a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, often run by local families.
    • Apartments and Vacation Rentals: Apartments and vacation rentals provide more space and flexibility, which is ideal for families or groups.

Savoring Ligurian Cuisine: Food and Drink

Santa Margherita Ligure is a culinary paradise, offering a variety of delicious Ligurian specialties:

    • Pesto: Liguria is the birthplace of pesto, a delicious sauce made with basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It’s a must-try when visiting the region.
    • Focaccia: Another Ligurian specialty is focaccia, a flatbread baked with olive oil and salt. It’s often served as a snack or appetizer.
    • Seafood: Fresh seafood is abundant in Santa Margherita Ligure, and many restaurants offer a variety of delicious dishes.
    • Trofie al Pesto: This traditional Ligurian pasta dish features trofie pasta (small, twisted pasta) served with pesto sauce.
    • Farinata: A thin chickpea pancake, often served as a street food snack.

Planning Your Trip to Santa Margherita Ligure: Practical Tips

Here are some practical tips for planning your trip to Santa Margherita Ligure:

    • Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall are the ideal seasons to visit Santa Margherita Ligure because of the lovely weather & reduced crowds.
    • Getting through: Although walking throughout the town is easy, buses and taxis are also available. Exploring the shoreline by boat is a fantastic experience.
    • Language: Although English is vastly spoken in tourist areas, Italian is the official language.
    • Currency: The euro (€) is the currency used in Italy.
    • Packing Essentials: Pack comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat

Conclusion

Santa Margherita Ligure offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, history, culture, and cuisine, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing & memorable Italian Riviera getaway. Whether exploring the picturesque harbor, indulging in Ligurian specialties, or taking a boat trip to nearby Portofino or Cinque Terre, Santa Margherita Ligure will charm and delight you. Its relaxed atmosphere, stunning scenery, and rich cultural heritage make it a true Riviera paradise waiting to be discovered.

Getting Small at the Leprechaun Museum in Dublin

We thought we knew all we needed to know about leprechauns. But with St. Patrick’s Day upon us we thought we should investigate further. Turns out that we knew next to nothing… CONTINUE READING >>

With St. Patrick’s Day coming up we thought we’d take another look at our visit to the Leprechaun Museum in Dublin. Hope it brings you a little luck o’ the Irish!

We thought we knew all we needed to know about leprechauns before we arrived at the National Leprechaun Museum.

As American kids, we learned from the authoritative source of Lucky Charms commercials just how mischievous they could be.

We’d spent hours dreaming about how we’d spend that pot o’ gold at the end of the rainbow – should we be lucky enough to find it.

Turns out that we knew next to nothing.

Thinking the museum was likely to be a magically delicious, cheesy tourist diversion — and we LOVE cheesy tourist diversions — we made a beeline to it as soon as we reached Dublin.

Actually, it was the first attraction we visited in all of Ireland.

The museum has its fair share of cheese – to be sure. The first hall we entered was filled with great memorabilia, including a retro example of our beloved American Lucky Charms boxes.

But this is not a museum in the traditional sense, it is more of a multi-sensual experience. Because the Irish are natural storytellers, it ’twas the storytelling that made our visit shine for us.

The magical tunnel that shrunk us down to size at the Leprechan Museum in Dublin, Ireland

Once we had our fill of the pop-culture history of leprechauns through ceramic miniatures, cereal boxes, movie posters (remember Darby O’Shea and the Little People?), and eerie-looking dolls, we were led by a dynamic young storyteller named Patrick through a magical portal.

A faerie tunnel that shrunk us smaller and smaller, until we became wee folk – diminutive enough to comprehend the legends we were about to hear.

We were made tiny at the Leprechaun Museum in Dublin!
Verified normal-sized chair

Tales of happenings that full-sized humans simply can’t wrap their big ol’ brains around.

The realm of the leprechaun is shadowy and, when our doubting eyes had adjusted, we could see that a seemingly impossible transition had indeed taken place.

We had entered a room where simply taking a seat was quite an ordeal.

Land o’ Goshen, we were tiny!

But Patrick insisted we sit, so we hoisted our way up onto the comfy chairs and he set us straight on the facts — and some of the misconceptions — about the little people of Ireland. Among them:

– A leprechaun wouldn’t be caught dead in green; they sport red jackets and hats.

– They are incredible shoemakersand you can always avoid one by listening for the sound of his cobblers hammer.

– There are no female leprechauns. We wanted to ask how they reproduce, but there were kids in the room.

– They are not the gregarious fellas of Lucky Charms lore, taunting folks with their riches. They are loners – grumpy misers who just want to make shoes and hoard their gold in private. We aren’t certain who they sell said shoes to, and had to wonder how we might get our hands on a pair.

– If you are (un)lucky enough to catch one, you may be granted wishes, but watch your back– they are known for their shenanigans.

Jumping down from our lofty height, we were led through the middle of rainbow (a first for us!) and beheld what our adult selves thought we’d never see – the mythical pot o’ gold.

While straining for the sound of a shoemaker’s hammer with one ear, we listened as Patrick imparted a cautionary tale with the other:

In a field of many trees, a human man sneak-attacked and caught a leprechaun.

David turns into a leprechaun at the National Leprechaun Museum in Dublin, Ireland!The human insisted the leprechaun show him his hidden gold in return for the little man’s freedom.

The agreement was made and they made their way to a tree where the bounty was buried, but – alas – the man had no shovel!

Releasing the cagey leprechaun, the human doffed one of his red garters and hung it on a branch of the tree to mark his score.

He ran like the wind all the way home and back (most likely giggling greedily along the way), only to find upon his return that EVERY tree in the field had been marked with an identical garter.

We’re assuming lots of pointless digging commenced.

Veronica walks through the fairy land of the Leprechaun Museum in Dublin, Ireland

See what we mean about shenanigans and watching your back?

As we journeyed deeper into the supernatural world, the surroundings became ever more shadowy.

We traipsed though the ebony land of banshees, fairy folk, and púca while sitting on toad stools and listening to Patrick relay their sagas.

Once the tales had all been told, we stepped through a door and burst outside into the bright daylight. We were momentarily stunned.

Returning to the realm of our normal-sized lives was an adjustment after experiencing the land of the leprechauns.

With an Irish blessing we were sent forth from the opaque faery landscape and into a land where the sun seemed too bright and the streets held no magic.

Asking for the road to rise to meet us didn’t seem to help all that much, but at least the wind at our backs was always our own.

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com

See all of our adventures in Ireland!

A big thank you to Ireland.com for providing this wee adventure. As always, all opinions are our own.

3 Lesser Known And Unique Spots In California You Must Visit

Sausalito, Bodie Ghost Town, and Shasta County are hidden gems that offer an escape from the hustle in busy cities, allowing you to enjoy natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and delicious foods… CONTINUE READING >>

Iconic attractions, from the Big Sur to Sacramento, Los Angeles, and the Golden Gate Bridge, lure a large population of tourists from around the globe to California. For instance, in 2022, California received 4.45 million international visitors and ranks as the third most visited state in the USA, according to Insider Monkey’s recent survey. While it’s natural to top your bucket list with the most popular sites, exploring hidden gems in the Golden State can elevate your vacation experience. Perhaps you’re searching for a destination that’s without crowds. Or you want to go sightseeing off the beaten paths, free from passionate selfie takers. California has unique, lesser known destinations that feature natural wonder, wacky photography spots, and activities that prove the West is best for your adventures. If you plan to try something exceptional and unforgettable on your next California trip, below are 3 hidden gems you must explore.

Bodie Ghost Town

48 miles north of Mammoth Lakes in the Sierra region, sits the Ghost Town of Bodie (best mining location of the 1870s). Here, you’ll get a fascinating image of California’s Wild West, as you explore what’s left of the town that turned from being vibrant to a place preserved in a state of ‘arrested decay’. No one inhabits the place, making it the top ghost town in the country. As you stroll the town, you’ll notice bars, barbershops, a schoolhouse, church, saloons, and a prison with untouched furniture. You may experience an eerie feeling like many visitors and think the area is haunted, but this could be because of high elevation. When visiting Bodie Ghost Town, plan to stay for 2-3 hours and bring a physical map, food, and water. Also, make plans for a side trip to Mono Lake, another hidden treasure along the way, where you’ll discover unique tufa towers in the salty water, baby blue shrimps, and watch millions of migrating birds.

Sausalito

A few minutes from San Francisco, you’ll find Sausalito, a picturesque seaside city that resembles a Mediterranean fishing town. This secret gem features breathtaking vistas of the Bay, art galleries, boutiques, and stunning houseboat communities. Whether you’re a foodie or just have a knack for delicious food, you can have a fine dining experience at exquisite waterfront restaurants or casual cafes. Want to rest after a day of fun activities? There are plenty of Sausalito hotels that provide accommodation that blends with your taste and budget. Just research your hotel options, from luxe hotels to cozy BnBs, vacation homes and book early. Exciting things to do in Sausalito include walking along the Bridgeway Promenade, taking in fantastic sights of Angel Island Park State and the San Francisco Bay. Head to Rodeo beach for a picnic with your dog, try stand-up paddle boarding, meet rescued animals at the Marine Mammal Center, hike in the Marin Headlands, visit Point Bonita lighthouse, and explore the Gallery Sausalito & Working Art Studio.

Shasta County

Seeking a respite from busy, noisy big cities to somewhere serene with unlimited adventure waiting? Shasta County should be next on your travel list. Its crystal blue water lake (Shasta Lake) with a backdrop of mountains and tree-lined shore makes the county beautiful. There are other small creeks, lakes, rivers, and streams spread across Shasta. Your vacation here involves hiking, water skiing, camping, windsurfing, horseback riding, and fishing. For the more adventurous tourists, there’s hand gliding, kayaking, and whitewater rafting. If you’re not interested in outdoor activities around Shasta Lake or Lassen National Park, you could visit museums like the Shasta Courthouse Museum or Turtle Bay Exploration Park.

Planning a vacation in California will probably revolve around big name attractions like Big Sur, Napa Valley, and LA. But what if you explored lesser known places that offer unforgettable adventure? Think of the seaside town, Sausalito, Bodie Ghost Town, and Shasta County. These hidden gems offer an escape from the hustle in busy cities, allowing you to enjoy natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and delicious foods.

10 Vital Ways Prescription Glasses Elevate Performance and Safeguard Vision

Vision is a precious sense, and preserving it should be a top priority. By opting for prescription glasses designed for outdoor activities, individuals can actively protect their eyes from potential harm…
CONTINUE READING >>

In the world of sports and outdoor pursuits, clear vision isn’t just important—it’s essential for both performance and safety. For individuals with vision challenges, prescription glasses are essential equipment, offering numerous advantages that improve performance and safeguard eyesight. From enhancing clarity and precision to protecting against environmental factors, prescription glasses are vital for empowering athletes and adventurers to excel in their pursuits. In this detailed guide, we’ll delve into the key ways prescription glasses enhance performance and ensure clear vision in a variety of activities and settings.

1. Clarity and Precision

In sports and outdoor activities, vision isn’t just a sense; it’s a critical factor that greatly influences performance and safety. For those with vision challenges, sports prescription glasses are indispensable equipment, offering numerous advantages that enhance performance and protect eyesight. From improving clarity and accuracy to shielding against the elements, prescription glasses are essential tools that empower athletes and outdoor enthusiasts to thrive in their endeavors. 

2. Customization for Specific Activities

Custom-made prescription eyewear can be adjusted to suit the unique needs of different sports and outdoor activities. For example, individuals engaged in water sports might prefer prescription goggles equipped with polarized lenses, designed to reduce glare and enhance visibility on the water. Likewise, cyclists and runners might lean towards sleek, close-fitting frames coupled with sturdy lenses to shield their eyes from flying debris and gusts of wind. This ability to customize prescription eyewear ensures excellent performance and comfort, regardless of the setting or activity.

wrap around prescription safety glasses

3. Protection Against UV Radiation

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation presents a notable threat to eye well-being, leading to issues like cataracts, macular degeneration, and sunburned corneas. Prescription eyeglasses containing UV-blocking lenses provide vital defense against these harmful rays, safeguarding the eyes from potential harm over time. This protection is particularly crucial for individuals who regularly participate in outdoor activities like skiing or hiking in high-altitude areas, where prolonged sun exposure is prevalent.

 4. Impact Resistance

In high-energy sports and adventurous pursuits, the risk of eye injuries from flying objects, falls, or collisions is a constant concern. Wearing prescription glasses with sturdy lenses acts as a crucial protective measure, reducing the likelihood of serious eye harm in case of accidents. Designed to withstand significant impacts without shattering, these lenses provide essential eye protection, minimizing the risk of complications resulting from traumatic events.

5. Anti-Fog Technology

For athletes and nature lovers alike, keeping their sight sharp amidst tough weather conditions poses a real challenge. That’s where anti-fog prescription glasses step in. These specs are decked out with lenses treated to repel condensation and fog, guaranteeing crystal-clear vision even when the elements are against you. This tech comes in clutch for high-action pursuits like skiing, snowboarding, or climbing, where being able to see clearly is key for staying safe and on top of your game.

6. Durability and Longevity

High-grade prescription eyewear is designed to endure the demands of dynamic lifestyles, boasting sturdy frames and lenses capable of enduring impacts, scratches, and harsh temperatures. Opting for top-notch prescription glasses guarantees durability and dependability, freeing athletes and explorers to concentrate on their endeavors without fretting about eyewear issues. Additionally, many prescription eyewear options come with warranties or guarantees, providing reassurance and confidence in their continued functionality throughout their lifespan.

7. Enhanced Comfort and Fit

Poorly fitting or uncomfortable glasses can hinder performance and create disruptions while engaging in sports and outdoor pursuits. Prescription eyeglasses come in diverse frame designs, materials, and dimensions, enabling people to discover the ideal match for their facial contours and daily activities. Features like adaptable nose pads, bendable temple arms, and lightweight construction materials all play a role in boosting comfort and steadiness, guaranteeing that glasses remain firmly positioned even during intense physical activity or exertion.

8. Versatility Across Activities

Prescription glasses offer a significant benefit in their adaptability to various sports and outdoor activities. Whether navigating rugged terrains, participating in team sports, or enjoying water activities, wearers can rely on their prescription glasses for consistent vision correction and protection in various environments. This flexibility means there’s no necessity for multiple sets of specialized eyewear, making gear preparation more straightforward and packing for adventures simpler.

9. Integration with Advanced Technologies

As lens technology, coatings, and frame design progress, prescription eyewear sees ongoing development. Innovations like photochromic lenses, adapting to light shifts, and polarized lenses, cutting glare and sharpening vision, significantly improve athletes’ and adventurers’ sight. Moreover, smart technology integration, like heads-up displays and activity trackers, offers real-time performance feedback and insights, further enhancing the utility of prescription glasses.

10. Confidence and Focus

The foremost advantage of prescription eyewear lies in the assurance and concentration it imparts to individuals, enabling them to engage wholeheartedly in their pursuits without being sidetracked or doubtful. Armed with unclouded sight and dependable eye shielding, sportspeople and explorers can stretch their boundaries, follow their interests, and reach their aspirations with resolute resolve and a clear sense of direction.

Conclusion

The significance of investing in high-quality prescription eyewear cannot be overstated, so it is definitely worth the effort to check online glasses when shopping for new glasses. It’s not merely about acquiring a pair of glasses; it’s about securing a vital tool that enhances performance and mitigates risks. Whether you’re skiing down steep slopes, traversing rugged trails, or biking through challenging terrain, having the right prescription glasses can mean the difference between success and setback.

Furthermore, prioritizing eye health and safety is paramount for athletes and adventurers alike. Vision is a precious sense, and preserving it should be a top priority. By opting for prescription glasses designed for outdoor activities, individuals can actively protect their eyes from potential harm, ensuring longevity and optimal function.

In essence, prescription glasses are steadfast companions on the journey to greatness. They enable athletes and adventurers to push their limits, conquer new challenges, and revel in the beauty of their surroundings with unparalleled clarity. So, whether you’re scaling mountain peaks, riding the crest of mighty waves, or carving through powdery snow, let your prescription glasses be your trusted allies, guiding you toward triumph and fulfillment every step of the way.

FAQs 

1. How do prescription glasses enhance performance during sports and outdoor activities?

    • Prescription glasses provide precise vision correction tailored to individual needs, ensuring optimal clarity and focus during activities like skiing, hiking, or cycling. This correction translates to better depth perception, improved hand-eye coordination, and enhanced reaction times, all of which are essential for peak performance.

2. What role do prescription glasses play in safeguarding vision?

    • Prescription glasses act as protective barriers against various environmental hazards encountered during outdoor pursuits. They shield the eyes from harmful UV rays, wind, dust, and debris, reducing the risk of eye strain, sunburn, and injuries. Additionally, they can incorporate specialized coatings to minimize glare and enhance contrast, further enhancing visual comfort and safety.

3. How do prescription glasses benefit athletes and adventurers?

    • Prescription glasses enable athletes and adventurers to navigate their surroundings with confidence and precision. By ensuring clear and accurate vision, they empower individuals to make split-second decisions, anticipate obstacles, and execute maneuvers with greater accuracy and control. Moreover, they promote eye health and longevity, safeguarding against potential long-term damage from exposure to the elements.

Embracing the Idea of an Adults Only Hotel in Gran Canaria

No parent, or anyone else, should ever feel the least bit embarrassed or guilty about taking a vacation kid free, we all need some adult time just for ourselves so we don’t burn out… CONTINUE READING >>

We are emptynesters, which is to say that our three children are all grown up and out on their own. With that in mind we like to say that we celebrate life after kids. After putting in decades of child rearing years we can now say that this phase of our lives is our “adult time.” So taking an adults only getaway seems perfectly natural for us.

But it wasn’t so long ago that we were running ragged chasing children, so we easily remember that parents of youngsters need a break every now and then too. No parent should ever feel the least bit embarrassed or guilty about taking a vacation kid free, we all need some time just for ourselves so we don’t burn out.

Parents, or even people without kids, should embrace time as a couple, enjoy it, celebrate it, and then return home more relaxed, refreshed, and ready to get back to raising those kids with renewed vigor and energy. The same can usually be said about work. With that in mind, we have discovered an Adults only hotel in Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria that just might be the best way ever to make that getaway great.

Start the escape to Marina Bayview Hotel off right with a cocktail or snack while relaxing by, or even in, the pool while taking in the incredible sea views. Need to unwind even more? The Sunset Lounge with Jacuzzi and Bali Beds is just the place. There is even a sauna to enjoy while basking in the full panorama of the Atlantic ocean. Giving in to some proper pampering sounds pretty good to us, and all the well-being treatments we could want await in the Beauty Corner.

And here is something else great we learned, even if you are not staying at the hotel you can still utilize all of the facilities. So no matter where you are staying, it is easy to enjoy Marina Bayview Hotel with day pass in Gran Canaria that includes breakfast or lunch, or even both at the La Ballena Pool Bar.

We are happy to admit that our idea of a vacation is all about relaxation, but we still want to make sure to get a little exercise in. Nothing too intense, maybe just a visit to the gym, where we can continue to enjoy amazing sea views, or we could take advantage of discounts on green fees at Salobre Golf, or perhaps rent bicycles to do a little exploration of beautiful Gran Canaria.

We have always thought that bikes are a great way to check out a new place. While we ride around we like to look for ideas about attractions and activities that we will want to explore more in depth later. Lucky for us, Marina Bayview Hotel can help set up all sorts of those excursions around the island, so going dolphin and whale watching, or hitting some hiking trails, or getting out on to the water are all right at our fingertips.

Often an adults only vacation is to celebrate a special occasion such as a birthday or anniversary. Well Marina Bayview can help make the day, or night, with their Fall in Love and Be a Star packages that include decorations, tasty sweet treats, and a bit of bubbly.

On the more practical side, who doesn’t appreciate a hotel with free parking? And Wi-Fi is always free, and available over the entire grounds, that way we can all share our #marinaexperiences with anyone and everyone.

After an adults only getaway like this even us emptynesters might be ready to take on parenting again.

I said “might be.”

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com

Finding a Family Hotel in Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria

While nothing, and nobody, is ever perfect, we have to say that when it comes to finding a place for kids, parents, and even grandparents, the Marina Hotel in Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria is about as close as we have ever found… CONTINUE READING >>

Nobody’s perfect, especially when it comes to being a parent. We know this all too well after raising and sending out into the big, wide world three kids. Luckily, they all turned out OK, even though there is no doubt that we made our fair share of mistakes.

But one thing we did that we are sure was not a mistake was to travel with them while they were young, and we continue to love traveling with them now that they are full grown adults. Introducing our children to new locations and experiences became a valuable part of their education and gave them a much greater understanding of the world and all of the amazing people and places to be found across the globe.

Now that they are parents themselves, we have the opportunity to replay those adventures with our grandchildren. But we understand that it can be a little difficult to find destinations, and accommodations that are really a good fit for children while still having everything the adults want in a vacation choice.

That is why we were so excited to learn about a truly terrific Family Hotel in Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria. Kids of all ages will find plenty to keep them busy and entertained at the Marina Suites Hotel, in Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria.

We found a choice of rooms with spectacular ocean views, allowing us to enjoy the Atlantic as a backdrop every day. Enjoy the sea breeze from a private balcony or terrace while taking in the splendor of the ocean and the marina of Puerto Rico.

Marina Suites also offers Family flats in Gran Canaria, so everyone can stay together in a nautical-inspired apartment with sleek, modern furnishings and an attention to detail designed to make us all feel right at home.

We all love an open, outdoor space to relax, so the magnificent views of the Atlantic awaiting at the infinite horizon pool and the Atlantic Pool Bar are perfect. But that doesn’t mean we can’t have fun with the little ones playing in the kids-only pool too.

Us grown ups will appreciate all of the amenities that Marina Suites has to offer, such as fine dining, beauty treatments, message, or maybe a round of golf. Even car and bike rentals are available right on site. But it can be hard to let go and enjoy these luxuries if worries about the kids interfere.

Well fear not! We already searched for a Hotel with Kids Club in Gran Canaria so you don’t have to. Surprise, Marina Suites and their Octopus Kids Club are the perfect place for the youngsters and, in case you need it, there is also a babysitting service.

At the Octopus Kids Club it’s impossible for your kids to get bored. Thanks to Jack the Octopus and his monitor helpers, the little ones will have a tons of games, group activities, art and crafts, and dancing ready to ensure that everyone has a whale of a time.

There is also a kids play area and a game room where bigger kids can compete at pool, foosball, ping-pong, petanque, and game machines.

Is someone having a birthday? Whether it’s one of the kids or an adult, Marina Suites has special packages to celebrate. But there is no need for a special occasion for everyone to enjoy the shows and events going on every week. These festivities include everything from games and sports, to shows for all ages.

Speaking of all ages, we will all certainly be taking advantage of the Wi-Fi and Internet Corner. The Wi-Fi is always free and available all across the hotel grounds so sharing our #marinaexperiences with the folks back home is easy as ABC.

Last, but not least, we all have to eat and Marina Suites is more than ready to fill us up no mater our age. Everyone will love Monday BBQ night at the Atlantic Pool Bar. Join in the best atmosphere with live music, great food, and special cocktails.

And kids of all ages will certainly appreciate the breakfast buffet in an open-air setting with amazing sea views at the Atlantic Pool Bar. The Pool Bar is also a great spot for lunch while taking a refreshing dip in the water.

Later in the evening El Puerto is the place to find local delicacies, along with international choices, in an environment that invites you to relax and enjoy a great meal at one of the highest rated restaurants in the area. What a way to finish the day!

So once again, while nothing, and nobody, is ever perfect, we have to say that when it comes to finding a place for kids, parents, and even grandparents, the Marina Hotel in Puerto Rico, Gran Canaria is about as close as we have ever found.

David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com

Understanding The Mortgage Process: What You Need to Know

First-time homebuyers are often overwhelmed by the mortgage loan process. Once the process starts, they may question the purchase. Thankfully, they have a real estate agent, mortgage loan officer, and other professionals to walk them through the steps. However, knowing each stage of the process and what it entails is helpful so the buyer can ask questions and make the right decisions for their financial situation.

Set a Budget

Before meeting with a loan officer or real estate agent to discuss mortgages and look for homes, a person should set a budget for this purchase. They need to consider the monthly mortgage payment rather than the home purchase price to determine which houses are affordable. However, the mortgage payment, real estate taxes, and insurance are only part of the equation. The borrower must also consider utilities, home maintenance, and repairs when determining how much they can afford.

Pre-Approval

Borrowers should talk with a lender to get pre-approved for a mortgage. Doing so lets the borrower know exactly how much they can obtain for the home purchase from a financial institution. This information can be shared with sellers because many won’t work with buyers unless they have pre-approval letters. Sellers want to know they are working with someone who can afford the purchase and isn’t wasting their time.

Look at Homes

Once a borrower is approved, it’s time to look at homes. Don’t rush the process; nobody wants to learn they missed out on their dream home because they didn’t look long enough. When a house is found, the buyer makes an offer with the help of their real estate agent. This offer should include contingencies or conditions, and the buyer must have earnest money to include.

Choose a Lender

Homebuyers often assume they must use the lender that provided the pre-approval letter when purchasing a home. They are not locked into using that financial company. Experts recommend speaking with at least three lenders to find the best interest rates and terms and conditions. The interest rates are determined by the loan type and the individual’s credit score.

Apply for a Mortgage

Complete the mortgage application. The lender will require additional documentation beyond that provided during the pre-approval process. A fully executed Purchase Agreement and the earnest money deposit are needed. Other documents must also be provided. Once the lender has all the documents, a Loan Estimate will be provided within three business days. This document outlines the precise rates, fees, and loan terms.

Home Inspection

A home inspection ensures the house doesn’t have major structural issues. Lenders usually require this inspection, which may be waived in a competitive market. The inspector checks the foundation, electrical and plumbing systems, the roof, and other major household components to identify areas needing repair. The buyer can negotiate the price with the seller once they know what work must be done to the house.

Home Appraisal

The home must also be appraised to ensure the asking price is reasonable. Lenders require this appraisal before the mortgage is approved. The buyer should choose a third party independent of the lender. The mortgage will not be approved if the assessment is lower than the contracted purchase price.

Underwriting

When all steps have been completed, the underwriting process begins. The loan process orders all credit reports, a title search, and tax transcripts. They verify all information on the application and send it to the underwriting team. This team ensures nothing has been overlooked and no areas of concern exist.

Once the loan has been approved, it must be finalized at closing. This step is handled by a closing attorney or title company, and the borrower must be prepared to sign several documents. The closing may be in person or virtually. Review the Closing Disclosure to ensure it is similar to the loan estimate and that all costs are as expected. The buyer is now a homeowner when all documents have been signed and funds exchanged.

Congratulations!