Tawanna Browne, Author at Mom's Guide To Travel

Jun 17 2016

Finding Dory Movie Review: A Lesson About Disabilities

This Finding Dory movie review is in honor of all people living with a disability.

Have you been waiting quietly for a follow-up to Finding Nemo, wondering what’s the story behind Dory?

Well, after 13 years now’s the time to grab the tissues and get to the theater.

Yes, I said it. You may need a tissue either from laughing or crying. The film does a great job (better than Nemo in my opinion) of carrying the audience through various emotions as we learn the story behind Dory.

“Just keep swimming”

FindingDoryMovieReview_InClass — Dory playing assistant teacher to Mr. Ray in Nemo’s class.

Remember Dory’s song “Just keep swimming. Just keep swimming. Just keep swimming?” Now we know the story behind it. It’s what her parents taught her when she was a little fish struggling with her short term memory loss.

More than being catchy and cute, it’s an illustration of how parents raising a child with a disability use creative tools to equip their children for the world.

As a mom of a child with autism I get this.

But perhaps parents of typically developing children won’t. If you’ve watched the movie, what were your thoughts?

Okay, I’m all over the place with this Finding Dory review so let’s get some proper backstory.

Finding Dory Synopsis

Our favorite blue tang fish Dory (voice of Ellen DeGeneres), is living happily in The Reef with Nemo (voice of Hayden Rolence) and Marlin (voice of Albert Brooks). Dory suddenly remembers that she has a family out in the ocean when Marlin says something to spark her memory.

She realizes that they may be looking for her.

Much to Marlin’s chagrin (and PTSD), the trio take off on a life-changing adventure across the ocean to California’s prestigious Marine Life Institute, a rehabilitation center and aquarium.

FindingDoryMovieReview_HankOctopus — Hank and Dory in the aquarium touch pool trying to avoid prodding fingers. Hilariousness!

Welcomed by the voice of Sigourney Weaver, in an effort to find her mom and dad, Dory enlists the help of three of the MLI’s most intriguing residents: Hank, a cantankerous octopus who frequently gives employees the slip; Bailey, a beluga whale who is convinced his echolocation skills are on the fritz: and Destiny, a nearsighted whale shark who Dory knew when she was little.

FindingDoryMovieReview_Destiny — Destiny and Bailey help Dory find a solution.

Deftly navigating the dark, complex inner workings of the MLI (a parallel to life), Dory and her friends discover the magic within their flaws, friendships and family.

Learning about Dory’s past

FindingDoryMovieReview_MomDad — Dory’s mom and dad.

Through well-timed flashbacks we learn about Dory’s childhood and how she got lost years ago. A song, a phrase, a familiar place intermittently jog Dory’s memories to lead her back to her beginnings.

We learn that a happy-go-lucky younger version of Dory is struggling with short term memory loss. Her parents spend much of their time teaching her little tricks to manage it.

This is where we also learn why she says “Hi my name is Dory. I suffer from short-term memory loss” when we first meet her in the Finding Nemo film.

The movie has an ensemble of colourful characters that help drive the story line and add to the nonstop action of the film.

FindingDoryMovieReview_Seals — Two funny sea lions, Rudder and Fluke help Marlin and Nemo find Dory.

At every point where you feel there’s a small triumph – whether it be Dory finding the marine life station; or Marlin and Nemo getting help from a crazy cross-eyed bird named Becky; or Dory finding her parents’ empty house; or the trio being reunited; or Dory eventually finding her parents – there is a twist and a turn.

You can never settle into the temporary win because somehow a curveball gets thrown into the story. It’s an ongoing resolution that will keep you laughing and asking” what’s next?”

On the personal side

My 12 year old son was engrossed in the film, laughing and enjoying it just as much as he did when he was a baby watching Finding Nemo. (Gratefully the Nemo wall decals in he and his brother’s blue bathroom are still relevant.)

On the other end, my 8 year old who has autism sat well throughout most of the movie. The characters were familiar to him because he also watched the Nemo DVD a dozen times.

He smiled when the movie started, staying fairly engaged. The action in the film wasn’t overwhelming where it triggered any adverse reactions, a common struggle for autism parents who take their children to movies. He enjoyed the consistent audience laughter, knowing that he could be just as loud.

The lesson for us all

Overall, Finding Dory is a funny and heartwarming animated film. Ellen DeGeneres is endearing as Dory and throughout the movie you just want her to overcome her memory loss and win.

Finding Dory is as much a story about Dory finding her parents as it is about her parents finding her and Dory finding herself.

I believe the film speaks to a greater message of managing disabilities: how parents can be creative to equip their children, how society can be compassionate enough to lend support, and how those who struggle can push ahead and just keep swimming.

I was a guest of Allied-THA to watch an advance screening and write a Finding Dory movie review. All images and clips are courtesy of Disney/Pixar. All opinions are my own.

Rating: PG

Run time: 85 mins

Jun 11 2016

10 Free Things To Do In Philadelphia This Summer

Looking for free things to do in Philadelphia this summer? Depending on how long you’ll be in town, you may find that there are more things to do in Philadelphia for free than you have time for.

If you’re driving into Philadelphia do yourself a favor, park your car. Both times that I visited with my boys I parked my truck in our hotel garage and left it there until it was time to go home. I found that this was a less stressful way for us to get around the city.

Enjoy the city by bus or foot. Hands down, public transportation or walking is the best way to find even more free or low cost things to do in Philadelphia.

In your normal day-to-day you probably drive around everywhere anyway, so why not give yourself a break. This will not only allow you to get a full sense of city life but it will also allow you to spot the little things you might not see while stuck in traffic.

Where to Stay in Philadelphia

I think Hotel Monaco by Kimpton is hands-down the best location for a visit to Philly. Besides having great views, it’s conveniently located across the street from Independence Hall and within walking distance from some great places to eat or stop for a treat.

Parking is by valet and will probably cost you upwards of $30 per day but it’s well worth it. It’s called peace of mind.

What are Free Things To Do In Philadelphia?

The Historic Sites

Experience early Philadelphia (and American) colonial history right downtown at Independence Mall.

1. Liberty Bell Center

Start on 6th and Market Streets to learn about the facts and myths surrounding the bell. You’ll learn about the history of the bell’s crack, eye historic documents, and hear how important groups in American history adopted the bell as a symbol of freedom.

Entrance to the Liberty Bell Center is free. You’ll have to undergo a security screening but thankfully the process is no comparison to what you go through at the airport.

Tip: Summertime the line tends to be insane so I’d suggest starting early at 9 a.m. when they first open their doors.

2. Independence Hall

Ever wanted to see the rooms where early constitutional negotiations were made? This is where you want to go. Independence Hall is a must! Admission is by tour only.

The guided park ranger tour of Independence Hall brings the history book to life. You’ll first go through an orientation before visiting the courtroom where lawyers met and argued. The Assembly Room is most impressive with George Washington’s “rising sun” chair commanding most of the attention.

On the second floor you’ll tour the Long Gallery as well as the Committee Room where committees met to discuss colonial policy.

Tip: Although tickets are free, you may want to consider paying the $1.50 for guaranteed timed tickets in advance, either online or by phone. You’ll avoid having to stand in the long walk-up ticket line. Sometimes it’s good to pay for convenience, especially when it’s hot and you’re traveling with kids.

3. Barnes Foundation

The Barnes Foundation, which houses one of the most important collections of impressionist, post-impressionist and early modern paintings in the world, offers free admission and programming on the first Sunday of every month for its Free First Sundays, presented by PECO. The Barnes also has an art library located on the lower level, which is free to visit Monday through Saturday, as well as free audio tours.

4. Edgar Allan Poe National Historical Site

The Edgar Allan Poe National Historical Site was once home to the legendary writer who wrote short stories such as The Black Cat here. Visitors can explore his fascinating life and learn how Poe influenced today’s literary heavy-hitters. Tours are self-guided or led by a park ranger from Friday through Sunday.

5. National Museum of American Jewish History

On Independence Mall, the National Museum of American Jewish History invites people to enjoy one of its most popular exhibitions for free. The Only In America^® Gallery/Hall of Fame celebrates the lives and achievements of 18 Jewish-Americans who show that America has provided individuals with extraordinary opportunities. The ground-floor gallery boasts some big-name artifacts: Albert Einstein’s pipe and Steven Spielberg’s Super 8 camera, among others.

6. United States Mint

During self-guided tours of the United States Mint, visitors watch coin production from 40 feet above the factory floor and see the nation’s first coining press. Audio and video stations explain currency’s history. Free.

7. Valley Forge National Historical Park

The site of the 1777-78 winter encampment of General George Washington and the Continental Army, Valley Forge National Historical Park offers a glimpse into the Revolutionary War with historic structures such as Washington’s Headquarters and commemorative monuments such as the National Memorial Arch. Visitors can explore the park by car, by bike or on foot guided by the park’s cell phone tour.

8. The Fabric Workshop and Museum

A contemporary art museum devoted to creating work in new media and new materials through its Artists-in-Residence program, The Fabric Workshop and Museum boasts an extensive permanent collection, in-house and touring exhibitions and comprehensive educational programming. Free.

9. Philadelphia Museum of Art

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is open to visitors who can pay what they wish to explore the entire main building, showcasing works by Marcel Duchamp, Salvador Dalí, Himalayan artists and many others. The museum offers free cell phone tours that add perspective to the collections.

10. Franklin Square

Franklin Square is one of five public parks designed by William Penn as he was creating the layout for Philadelphia. The park is free and has lots of great activities to do. There’s a miniature golf course, classic carousel, burger place, storytelling bench, picnic area and more.

Less Expensive Things To Do in Philadelphia

Ride the Philly Phlash on a $5 all day pass. You can hop on and off to 22 locations in the city to explore Philadelphia’s most popular cultural institutions.

Make sure to bring exact change. If you only need a single ride, it’ll cost you $2. You might as well get the all day pass and ride the full loop around the city. I did it with my kids when we were done hopping off and on to see sites.

It was a great way to see the sites and make a mental note of what we wanted to visit next time.

For some serious savings on Philadelphia’s most popular attractions, tour-goers can snag a CityPASS ticket booklet, which includes four tickets to Philly favorites. Visitors can pick either Adventure Aquarium or ThePhiladelphia Zoo, but Philadelphia Trolley Works, The Franklin Institute and the brand-new One Liberty Observation Deck are always included.

As of March 1, 2016, the cost is $59 for adults and $39 for children ages 2 to 12—45% cheaper than full-price admission costs. The pass is valid for nine consecutive days beginning with the date of first use. What’s more, it allows holders to skip the main entrance ticket line at most attractions.

What are some of your favorite free things to Philadelphia in the summer? And while you’re at it, why not Pin this story on your board.

Heads up! This blog post has affiliate links to help keep it alive and offset administrative costs.

May 31 2016

London Travel Tips: Your Own Harry Pott-tour Travel Itinerary

If you’ve followed any of my London travel tips on this blog for a while, you’ll know that I am not only a fan of London but also a big fan of Harry Potter.

And it’s not because my kids are into the stories.

I tried to get my son into the books and movies when he was 3 or 4 and he couldn’t be bothered. Star Wars and Lego movies were his preferred taste. So I had to unapologetically read the books and follow along in the magic of the story on my own.

When I traveled to London in 2012 just a month after the Warner Bros. Harry Potter studio opened up to the public, by a stroke of luck (or magic), I met a Warner Bros. VP while having dinner with friends. He gave me his office number, told me to call his executive assistant and had an all-access pass waiting for me to take a tour of the studio.

Score! I was ecstatic and beyond excited to visit the wonderful world of Wizadry.

From London to the studio it was a trek! The ride wouldn’t have been so bad with company but my friends were too busy being adults to come.

No matter. The day happened exactly as it was supposed to. Fate had already written the story and sketched out my adventure.

My tour of the studio was more than I could’ve asked for. I walked around for over 3 hours at my own pace visiting life-sized sets and gazing at props while warming up to a creamy cup of butter beer.

As comprehensive and fulfilling as the tour was, I didn’t realize until months later that there was more to the wizarding world of Harry Potter that I hadn’t seen.

The following post which originally appeared on the Travefy blog, shares locations around the United Kingdom from the Harry Potter movies.

Harry Potter fans, rejoice! The ultimate (and we mean ultimate) Harry Potter itinerary has been created!

While, going on the magical journeys like the famous witches and wizards did in J.K. Rolling’s Harry Potter book series isn’t possible, we can relish in the fact that some of the places do in fact exist. And we’re going to share them with you (complete with a travel itinerary, too)!

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland

“All aboard The Hogwarts Express!” This iconic train is an actual full-functioning train, known as the Jacobite Steam Train and it looks just as good as it does in the movies as it stretches beyond a wide field of rolling, bright green hills.

You’re going to hop aboard and take this train to your next destinations…

Glencoe, Scotland

The magical landscapes were used for many scene backdrops. You might notice Steall Falls at Glen Nevis from the Tri-Wizard Tournament in the Goblet of Fire (2005) and where Quidditch matches were also filmed.

The Elephant House – Edinburgh, Scotland

london travel tips and itinerary: the elephant house — Photo Credit: The Edinburgh Cafe Enthusiast

Here lies the “birthplace of Harry Potter”. This is the now-famous location where J.K. Rolling wrote the first and second Harry Potter books. J.K. Rolling found it cheaper to pay for a cup of coffee and write all day at The Elephant House, rather than pay a heating bill at home. She notoriously sat on the third floor, staring out the window to the back where she saw…

Greyfriars Kirkyard – Edinburgh, Scotland

The official resting place of Thomas Riddle, but not the Tom Riddle you’re thinking. This cemetery offers tons of clues to where some of J.K. Rolling’s inspiration for the Harry Potter book series came from. Like the names engraved in the stone, Thomas Riddle and James, and you can’t miss the snack etched on the grave either.

Alnwick Castle – United Kingdom

Grab your broomsticks and head off to Alnwick Castle where many outdoor scenes from the first two Harry Potter movies were shot. Most notably, where Harry and his classmates took their first flying lessons with Madame Hooch.

Durham Cathedral – Durham, England

As if the picture of cloisters above doesn’t already show you – Durham Cathedral was the filming location for many Harry Potter films. The cathedral chapter house was the site for Professor McGonagall’s class when she taught students how to turn animals into water goblets. Also, the same place where Ron slug-vomited in the Chamber of Secrets (2002).

Goathland Station – United Kingdom

Goathland Station is home to the Hogwarts Express stop at Hogsmeade Station. You’ll notice the striking resemblance when the train passes you by here. Harry Potter and The Sorcerers Stone (2001) was filmed at this location when the Hogwarts Express reaches Hogsmeade.

King’s Cross Station – London

Also known as Platform 9 3/4. This is the holy grail for Harry Potter fans because you can actually touch it and it does exist in our muggle world! Unfortunately, your magic won’t be strong enough to actually make it to the other side of the brick wall to the Hogwarts Express. However, taking a good picture could fool anyone ?

Lincoln’s Inn Fields, Claremont Square N1 – London

Claremont Square, N1 is best known as the muggle’s view of No. 12 Grimmauld Place. It was the home of the Black Family, and then notoriously becomes the headquarters of the Order of the Phoenix, appearing in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007).

High Commission of Australia – London

London travel tips and itinerary: bank chandelier — Photo Credit: travel.allwomenstalk.com, Neecey Beresford.

No goblins here – the Australia House is used as Gringott’s. Unfortunately, you will need a good reason to go inside, like getting your Visa. However, the inside of the Australia House was used for all scenes inside Gringott’s with it’s chandeliers and marble columns. The exterior was created special for the films and not the way muggles see it in London today.

Millennium Bridge, London

Do not fear – you shall find zero death eaters on your journey across the Millennium Bridge. This bridge is featured in Harry Potter and Half-Blood Prince (2009) as muggles run for their lives to escape the collapsing bridge caused by “plumes of smoke” (aka death eaters).

Cecil Ct., London

london travel tips and itinerary: cecil court — Photo credit: snipview.com

It has been said that this is the real Diagon Alley and that J.K. Rolling’s for the magical shopping place was inspired by Cecil Ct. It certainly does look like as you walk through the long row of shops! The only downside to your shopping adventure is that you won’t be able to treat yourself to a new robe for school at Madam Malkin’s store.

Reptile House at the London Zoo, London

The ever-so-infamous spot where Harry Potter first spoke parseltongue. Both in the book and in the movie, this is the setting where the snake was released by Harry and set free. You will find the scene in Harry Potter and the Sorcerers Stone (2001).

Harrow School, United Kingdom

london travel tips and itinerary: harrow school — Photo credit: buildingpanoramics.com

Harrow School is an all boy’s independent school. In it you will find its oldest classroom, built in 1615 – and also home to Professor Flitwick’s charms class. In Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001), this class is presented during his teaching of Wingardium Leviosa.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour, London

Harry Potter London Studio Tour — A photo from my collection (couldn’t help myself)

You can’t find more Harry Potter excitement than this! Go on the studio tour and walk through the Great Hall and Diagon Alley, where the Harry Potter movies were filmed, and check out the amazing special effects that make magic come to life!

Christ Church, Oxford

Follow the footsteps of Harry Potter and the cast through many filming locations at Oxford’s college. One of the most popular destinations is on the staircase which leads up to the Great Hall – it was used for the arrival scene for new Hogwarts students in the Sorcerer’s Stone(2001) and Chamber of Secrets (2002).

Gloucester Cathedral, Gloucester

london travel tips and itinerary: gloucester cathedral — Photo credit: englishcathedrals.co.uk

The magical cloisters found at historic Gloucester Cathedral was transformed into the corridors of Hogwarts Witchcraft and Wizardry. Many other popular scenes from the first two Harry Potter films can be recognized here like, the wall where we were enlightened that the Chamber of Secrets had been opened while written in blood, the door that led into the girl’s bathroom where Moaning Myrtle infamously would hang out, and the door to the Gryffindor dormitories.

Lacock Abbey and Village, Wiltshire, England

The cloisters in Lacock Abbey is where Harry comes our of Professor Lockhart’s room after serving detention in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (2002).

london travel tips and itinerary: cotswolds — Photo credit: cotswolds.info

Walking through this village, you will feel as if you stepped into the magical world too. The cottage backdrop can be found in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009).

May 23 2016

6 Top Foods To Try In London [Infographic]

Every time I travel to the UK, I challenge myself to explore different foods to try in London. Otherwise I’d stick to my safety net of pasties and Indian food.

Honestly, there’s some British food I can stand and some I just can’t take. My taste buds are flexible to an extent but aesthetically the food has to look and smell good enough for me to be adventurous enough to eat.

Are you the same? If you need some help on what to eat in London, check out the following post which was originally posted on IHG’s blog for some foodie tips.

Planning a visit to London? After booking your flight and picking the perfect London hotel, the next item on the list is figuring out where to dine in this British metropolis. London is packed with everything from expensive, swanky restaurants to ultra-affordable, no-frills street vendors. The great thing about this city is that whether you dine in luxury or while just lounging on a park bench, you can enjoy some truly delicious food.

But what should you eat while you’re there? You’ll be bombarded with international cuisine options and hearty English dishes everywhere you turn. Tantalizing smells will waft from street carts, cafes and restaurants alike, all of which make it more difficult to decide what to eat. But on a limited jaunt in this city, you’ll want to make your menu selections carefully. It’s important to enjoy the traditional flavors this city serves up without missing out on some of the more exotic offerings.

To help travelers make the most of every meal in London, we’ve put together this hassle-free guide to the city’s best dishes. Use this menu to make sure you don’t miss out on the incredible flavors that London has to offer during your visit.

May 16 2016

Things To Do In Charleston SC Aquarium

There are more things to do in Charleston SC aquarium besides looking at fish. The attraction is an interactive experience both in and outside of the building.

Young kids aren’t the only ones that love it. Every parent and grandparent I spotted in the exhibits shared in the wonderment and excitement with their children.

Things To Do In Charleston Aquarium

Here’s a short video I put together of my son and I enjoying the Charleston aquarium. This is just a snippet of the colorful sea creatures you’ll see if you visit.

If you’re fortunate enough to find street parking outside the private residences near the aquarium, you’ll not only save money but you’ll also spot a well-kept open field for the kids to play. If you don’t find street parking, there’s a parking structure on Calhoun street directly in front of the aquarium.

Liberty Square Park is a nice place to sit for a spell before or after your aquarium visit. There’s a beautiful water fountain with a sculpture of birds in flight next to a pair of swing benches. It’s a peaceful place to sit, swing, and enjoy the Carolina sunshine.

The aquarium experience

As soon as you purchase your tickets be prepared to have your photo taken by an aquarium employee. We did this our first time visiting when my oldest was a toddle but this time I passed. Equipped with my own camera phone, we took photos in multiple picture-worthy locations.

Before entering the aquarium you’ll find an interactive water station. You’ll probably hear it before you see it.

This is the first station where your kids can get their hands wet. An aquatic handler (totally making up that word here) educates visitors about the stingrays in the pool they stand in front of, instructing brave souls how to properly interact with the sting rays.

This is one of several stations where children can touch something. Another popular stop is the hermit crabs on the top floor and whatever other animal the aquarium puts on deck for a close-up encounter.

If your kids are skilled at kayaking and want to get an even closer encounter to fish, consider taking them on an excursion and try your hand at kayak fishing in Charleston with them.

There’s also a 4D IMAX movie experience at the aquarium if you want to add a little extra to your ticket.

Where Is The Aquarium In Charleston SC?

The aquarium is located in downtown Charleston. It has one of the best locations in the city.

Adjacent to the ferry that transfers visitors to Fort Sumter, the aquarium sits on the waters of the Cooper River looking out towards Mt. Pleasant. If the weather is nice, you can spend a significant amount of time on the deck staring out at the water as boats of all sizes sail by.

Best Time To Visit The Charleston Aquarium

I visited family in Charleston for Spring Break and took my youngest to the aquarium. I prepared myself for the worst with the crowds but thankfully, the Southern schools weren’t out for break quite yet.

However, we did run into a school field trip. There’s always a field trip to an aquarium. Always!

Honestly, if you want to avoid the crowds, go on a weekday during regular school hours. The aquarium website suggests before 11 am or after 2 pm. We visited before 11 and I was happy with that decision. Why?

Full tummies so no need to by expensive aquarium food
the facilities were still clean, a product of little traffic early in the morning
smaller crowd

During the summer and holiday months, forget about it! Just accept that it’s going to be crowded. If the aquarium is anything like ours here in Baltimore, I would suggest getting there as soon as the aquarium opens.

How Much Does The Charleston Aquarium Cost?

Admission for adults (13+) is $23.95 for an aquarium ticket only, $29.95 when you add IMAX 4-D experience. Prices for children 3-12 is $17.95, $22.95 with IMAX.

We added IMAX onto our ticket, might as well get the entire experience. It was my youngest’s first time and I hadn’t been there since my 12 year old was 2. Spending the extra money wasn’t a big deal as it’s not a place I visit often.

I’ll have to say this: I didn’t care for the 4D IMAX experience.

We saw Ice Age and although the movie is funny, I don’t like water hitting my face in the dark. I also think it was a little jolting for my son. The bubbles and rocking chair were fine but no water in the face. No no.

It’s not an inexpensive outing so I suggest you keep costs down by waking up early, eating a nice breakfast, packing snacks and going to the aquarium early to spend at least half the day there. Might as well get your money’s worth!

The aquarium is open from 9 am – 4pm with the building closing at 5pm so you have plenty of time.

Members of the military get a discount and you may be able to get a few dollars off with AAA membership. I always ask.

Whatever you decide to do, you’ll enjoy the aquarium and its location. I think it’s a fun attraction for the entire family to experience with each other while in Charleston.