The Insurance Doctor

Category: travel

  • 7 Places to take your kids this summer outside Manhattan

    Parents are always looking for fun places to take kids this summer.  Whether it’s education or to tire them out, these places will leave lasting impressions on your loved ones:

    1. New York Hall of Science: Located at 47-01 111th in Corona queens and open 7 days. Many interactive science exhibits and attractions to keep your child’s interest.
    2. Indoor Extreme Sports: Play paintball and Black Ops laser tag this place gets the adrenaline pumping. Located in Long Island city and Staten Island.  We have thrown birthday parties here and I will tell you big kids like it too, LOL!insurance, New York City, financial services
    3. Bounce U: Another great birthday place, Bounce U can be found in Brooklyn and College Point, Queens. Open 7 days and not just for parties as they have open bounce hours to wipe out the most feisty children.
    4. The Queens Zoo: Located in Corona, Queens and close to #1 the Hall of Science. The Zoo is open daily and easier to navigate and less crowded than other Borough Zoo’s although they’re all good.
    5. Kids Fun House: Located on fresh pond road in Ridgewood, Queens it’s for children up to 12 years old. There’s a socks only play area for small children while the bigger kids go thru the maze or play arcade games.  There’s also an on-site café.
    6. Museum of the Moving Image: Open wed-sun this place is really fun and was recently renovated. Took the boys last year to the “Behind the Screen” exhibit with Star Wars props etc.  Also, somewhat hidden is an old-school arcade with Ms Pacman, galaga and other games baby boomers will be familiar with.
    7. Artistic Stitch Sports Complex: Located on Cooper Ave. in Glendale, Queens and open from mon-sat. If you have older children, this place has something for everyone.  Soccer, dodgeball, wiffleball and rock climbing to name a few.

  • 8 Fun facts about ML Baseball Spring Training

    This week pitchers and catchers report for spring training. I get excited because the baseball season is beginning and winter is ending. These minor league stadiums are a lot of fun to visit. Enjoy these tidbits!

    1. The Florida “Grapefruit league” and Arizona “Cactus league” are a 50/50 split which 15 teams training in each state.insurance, financial services, New York
    2. Do you want a closer look at your favorite players than from your seat? Visit their spring training stadium where access rules are very lax.
    3. George M. Steinbrenner Field (Tampa) has the same outfield dimensions as Yankee Stadium. It also sits directly across the street from Raymond James Stadium where the Tampa Bay Buccaneers play.
    4. Surprise Stadium (Royals and Rangers) in Arizona has a merry-go-round in the right-field concourse.
    5. The foul poles at Phoenix Municipal Stadium (Athletics) were originally used at the polo grounds.
    6. Fans attending Blue Jay’s games in Dunedin, Florida get to hear both the Canadian and USA’s national anthems. They also have Labatt’s beer on tap at Florida auto exchange stadium.
    7. Bright House Network field in Clearwater, Fla. Caters to Phillies fans serving Philly cheese steaks and Yuengling beer.
    8. In 2017 the “Ballpark of Palm Beaches” (West Palm Beach, Fla.) will open and be the new home of the Houston Astros and Washington Nationals.

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  • 8 Summer Travel Tips

    8 Summer Travel Tips

    Having touched foot on 5 of the 7 continents, I have learned a lot.  With solid planning, I was able to do 3 weeks in Thailand, Myanmar, and Cambodia with 1 carry-on bag and 1 computer bag.  My top travel tips are:insurance, New York, travel

    1. Call your credit card companies in advance: and tell them where you are going and what dates. I have had cards frozen because companies see a string of out of town charges and they think your cards were stolen.
    2. Think in body sections when packing: I do this in the morning while getting work ready and start from feet to head.  It can be stressful the last days before a trip so you don’t want to forget anything so do the same with the kids.
    3. Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on bag: 29 million bags are lost/delayed each year. Be ready when it happens to you!
    4. Buy a guide book if going overseas: Can’t stress this enough. Advanced research prevents issues which can ruin a trip.  For example, my research told me that in Myanmar and Cambodia they accept US dollars however not with folds or wrinkles.  I went to the bank in advance and withdrew $500 of new bills in 1’s, 5’s, 10’s and 20’s. I like “lonely planet” and “rough guides” the best.  Look for the most recent edition.
    1. Read negative reviews on hotels: I prefer trip advisor and Agoda for international travel.
    2. If touring by car get a tune-up and GPS: Nothing worse than getting lost or having your car break down.  GPS your destinations in advance for proper time planning.
    3. Buy an off color suitcase: This way you can spot in from a long distance away.
    4. Sign up for the TSA: The TSA pre-check can make the difference between missing and making a flight and decrease travel stress considerably.
  • 6 London Attractions to See on a Budget

    6 London Attractions to See on a Budget

    6 great attractions in London on a budget

    After a ten day visit, I can say that London is a fantastic place to visit however it can burn a hole in your wallet or purse. Today’s exchange rate is about $1.50 US dollars for every 1 pound (Lb).

    Check out these 6 FREE must see options below:

    1. The British Museum: Ranked #15 of top 25 places to visit in the “world” in lonely planet’s august 2015 survey. It’s 1 of only 2 museums listed (the other is in Australia). This massive museum houses priceless artifacts from all 7 continents. It’s set up by country and subdivided by era. It’s also free! Was so nice I went twice. They suggest a 5-pound donation however not mandatory.

    The Borough Market, London
    The Borough Market, London

    2. Borough Market: A hidden gem located walking distance from London Bridge. Words don’t describe how interesting it is (see my FB pictures). Before 5 pm the market is loaded with tasty treats. Some of the best cheeses I’ve ever had. After 5 pm it’s filled with locals getting out of work.

    3. Tate Modern Museum: an art gallery with pieces (Picasso’s and Warhol’s) mostly from 1900-present and is 1 of 4 Tate galleries in the UK. There’s a great balcony for pictures of the Thames river and St. Paul’s. It’s located a short walk over the millennium bridge across from St. Paul’s cathedral. It’s about 75% free as there’s one floor with current exhibits that they charge for. Also, check out the lounge area with couches the unique activities for the kids. They can draw and be creative and see their drawings projected onto the wall. A 4-pound donation suggested not mandatory.

    4. Camden town: Reminds me of our Greenwich village in Manhattan. Cool hipster edgy area with interesting vintage clothing shopping and people watching. Go to their Camden market which used to be horse stables that were converted into many little unique booths. Great place to find the same goods as centre city London for less than half the price. For you shopaholics (you know who you are, lol) also visit Harrods department store. It takes Saks 5th avenue to a whole new level.

    5. The National Gallery: This gallery has one of the best collections of paintings in the world. Read the captions as I was interested to see some of the pieces were given to the gallery in lieu of paying estate (inheritance) taxes. It’s located in Trafalgar square which is a really fun place to just walk around. The architecture is breathtaking!

    6. London Rock Tour: This is a bonus tidbit although it’s not free. There are two different mini-bus tours 9-1 and 2-6 that cost about $50 each. They are run by a former band promoter named Bob. Go to Abbey road and abbey road studios. See Paul McCartney’s house, the Rolling Stones sticky fingers restaurant and get great stories of these British bands on their way up.

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  • 8 Holiday Road Travel Tips

    8 Holiday Road Travel Tips

    This weekend will have millions of Americans on the road most of them to see relatives to celebrate the upcoming holidays.  Traffic and unprepared parents can put a damper on the family trip.  Enjoy these tips to smoothen your ride!

    1. Check traffic in advance: We prefer Waze or Google Maps to check for accidents and weather delays
    2. Gas up in advance: Running out of gas can suck the fun out of any trip. We like gasbuddy.com to find cheap gas in foreign cities and towns.
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    3. Put presents in black garbage bags: This prevents gifts from “accidentally getting opened” when in the back seat with curious kids, lol.
    4. Stock up: Stock up on snacks (preferably healthy) fluids and coffee for your upcoming mission!
    5. Check tire pressure: Low pressure leads to blowouts, uneven tire wear and worse gas mileage.
    6. Create a “Road Trip Kit”: Surprise the kids with activities, crayons, books and or movies to help the time go by more fun and faster.
    7. Pack wipes: You never know what can happen when with the family on the road.
    8. Brings snacks for pets: Remember to not give pets a full meal within 1 hour before leaving as they are more prone to car sickness.

    Enjoy folks and wishing you the happiest of holidays!

  • 5 reasons to visit Sorrento

    Wedged on a ledge under the mountains and over the Mediterranean, Sorrento is long and narrow.  Sorrento is reasonably priced and can be done either as a day trip or 1-2 nights will suffice.

    1. Stunning Cliffside views: Spectacular stretch of coastline over the bay of Naples and near Capri.

      sorrento
      Shopping in Old Town Sorrento
    2. Lemons and Limoncello: Sorrento takes it to the next level serving all types of edibles with limoncello inside.  Be careful as alcohol contents range from 14-24% potent levels for sure!
    3. Old Sorrento town: Very pleasant old city where many people speak English. Streets are narrow with colorful shops and quaint trattorias.
    4. Shopping: Wide variety of shops offering everything from leather goods, homemade sandals to creative olive and lemon products.
    5. Sightseeing: Easy to walk Sorrento boasts a wealth of elegant historic architecture, Greek, Roman and Medieval buildings

  • 5 Reasons to Visit Capri

    Still Italy’s most glamorous seaside getaway, this whale shaped island has an epic beauty!  Made famous as a vacation hideaway of Roman Emperors Augustus and Tiberius, these days Capri is a touristy island well worth visiting at least for a day trip at a minimum. I suggest going in September, October, May or June.

    1. insurance, new york, financial planningThe Blue Grotto: Capri was discovered in 1826. Some folks dismiss the grotto as an overrated touristy sight however it’s beautiful blue sunlight reflecting through the water is an impressive sight.
    2. Capri Town: Most boats and ferries will take you to the Marina Grande which is basically the port of Capri. A funicular (chair lift) is a fun short ride that takes you up 500 feet to the town of Capri where you can easily spend a full day there before venturing to other parts of the 4 mile by 2 mile “island of dreams’.
    3. High-end shopping options: For those addicted to shoes, handbags and/or men’s fashion, this place will be heaven for you!  Prices are steep however so be prepared.
    4. Hiking: Surprisingly there are a few amazing panoramic hikes available on this small island.  Emperor Tiberius’s now-ruined Villa Jovis is a very scenic 1-hour hike from Capri Town.
    5. AnaCapri: Buses go regularly from Capri Town to AnaCapri.  From AnaCapri, ride the chair lift to the 1900 foot summit of Monte Solaro for a commanding view of the Bay of Naples and a pleasant downhill hike through lush vegetation and ever-changing views.

     

  • 6 Reasons to Visit Kansas City

    If you do the proper research you will find Kansas City to be a fun, underrated and interesting place to visit.  We just returned from a 4 day long weekend and suggest the following;

    1. KC Barbecue: KC BBQ is the real deal!  My suggestions are Joe’s, the most famous place as well as Arthur Bryant’s and Gates BBQ.  You won’t be disappointed.

    Kansas City Country Club District
    Kansas City Country Club District

    2. Arrowhead and Kaufman stadiums: Arrowhead has cracked my top 10.  Unique structural design and shape as well as round reply screens set it apart from other stadiums.  We were told that the engineering firm that did Arrowhead was used for several other stadiums.

    3. Negro Baseball league Museum: This place was awesome!  There’s a mini movie theatre, cool exhibits, great history and a small field with bronze statues.  They let you run the bases as well. It’s a must.  The museum is directly across from the Jazz museum and you can see both for $15, tremendous value.

    4. Power and Light district: Cool downtown area on the Missouri border with tons of bars and restaurants as well as better than expected nightlife.  Open until 3am.

    5. Country club district area: Very interesting and high end shopping.  We were there for their 85th annual art festival.  Closed off streets with blocks of booths and progressive art.  Locals call it the “million dollar walk”.

    6. The people:  These are some of the friendliest people we have encountered in the USA.  Easy to talk to and they will welcome you with open arms, even Jet fans, lol.

  • 6 Interesting Reasons to Visit Shasta Dam

    6 Interesting Reasons to Visit Shasta Dam

    There are many interesting places to visit in the USA. Nestled in the northern Cascade mountain range sits one of the largest engineering feats of the last century: Shasta Dam.  Located in northern California, the Shasta Dam tour should be added to your travel list for the following reasons:

    1. Built in 1945, The Shasta Dam is the tallest center overflow dam in the world.

    5 General Electric turbines in the dam’s power plant are capable of producing up to 710 megawatts

    2. Part of its construction involved building the world’s largest conveyor belts (9.6 miles long) that transported gravel from what is now known as the Turtle Bay Exploration Park in Redding to the dam construction site. Turtle Bay features the world famous Sundial Bridge (also a must visit).

    3. Located at the north end of the Sacramento Valley, the Shasta Dam created Shasta lake for long-term water storage, flood control, and hydroelectricity.

    4. 80% of all the rain in California falls in the northern region. The Dam supplies water all the way down to the central region which has the majority of California’s agriculture.

    5. The grounds include a well-manicured open grass park area with picnic tables and it’s conducive to Frisbee games and fun for the family.

    6. The comprehensive hour tour takes you under and through the dam in addition to the inside where the turbines are located. Ask for Antoinette who will also give you a history lesson as World War 1 and the Pearl Harbor invasion delayed construction for years.

  • 10 Fun & Not So Fun Facts About Puerto Rico

    After 20+ years I just spent a week at the El San Juan and learned that it’s not what it used to be.  Here’s what I found.

    The streets of San Juan, Puerto Rico
    streets of San Juan, Puerto Rico

    1. Leave your passport home: PR is a U.S. territory hence, you can ditch your passport!  Bring a valid / current photo ID though.

    2. The drinking age is 18 and currency is U.S. dollar    :  It makes things very easy to buy what you forgot to pack.

    3. There are 5 Miss Universe winners from PR: Unfortunately, I didn’t see any of them at the beach.

    4. PR has 270 miles of beaches and is an archipelago: which means there are more islands to explore.

    5. The west coast of PR has some of the best surfing and diving in all of the Caribbean: A hidden gem for sure.

    6. PR has some of the best coffee in the world: Having been on 5 of the 7 continents I rate them in my top 5.

    7. PR is the home of the world’s largest telescope: It’s called the Arecibo Observatory.

    8. PR is almost always between 70 to 80 degrees year round: Weather is steady but no guarantee.  We were just had 2 of 7 days that were sunny.  We did find that the humidity seemed lower and less bugs than before.

    9. PR is in deep debt that is currently $72B: Old town San Juan was noticeably run down with many closed businesses and less people.  There was actually a shortage of luggage earlier this year because so many people are leaving the island.

    Zip line fun in Puerto Rico
    Zip line fun in Puerto Rico

    10. Currently, PR has no bankruptcy protection: PR is in a deep recession and there’s no guarantee that the USA will bail them out.  They are having elections in may and corruption is rampant.  The relationship between the U.S. and PR is a “tricky” one.  We shall see how it plays out.

    In summary,  PR is still a fun place to visit.  That being said if you were there years ago like us you will notice the difference and might be disappointed!