While Barbie’s away, Ken’s gonna play—and you’re invited! In honor of the July 21 Barbie movie release, Airbnb is giving fans a chance to stay in an IRL reproduction of the beloved Malibu Barbie DreamHouse, with Ken as host.
Two pairs of lucky guests will get to live out their technicolor dreams for a night. Booking opens at 10 a.m. PT on Monday, July 17 for two, one-night stays for up to two guests taking place on July 21 and July 22, 2023. These stays will be free of charge—because Ken couldn’t figure out how to put a price on Barbie’s Malibu DreamHouse. After all, Ken’s thing is the beach, not math!
you guessed it…
the barbie malibu dreamhouse is back on airbnb—but this time, it’s ken-ified 🛼🤠
While Barbie has always been in the spotlight, it’s now her partner’s time to shine. “We all have dreams, and Barbie is lucky enough to have a house full of them,” said Ken via press release. “But now, it’s my turn, and I can’t wait to host guests inside these one-of-a-kind—dare I say, one-of-a-Ken?—digs.”
Joyce Lee
Situated on the sunny Malibu coast, the DreamHouse features views for days. Enjoy your time outdoors around the fire pit and soak up some California sun while you take a dip in the infinity pool.
Joyce Lee
Belly up to the bar and have Ken make you a mai tai while he’s grilling up the burgers!
Joyce Lee
Head indoors where you’ll find Ken’s cowboy chic taking over the bedroom and beyond.
Joyce Lee
Dig through his closet for that perfect look to wear to, you guessed it, the on-site disco roller rink!
Joyce Lee
Guests will even get to take home a piece of the Kendom with their very own set of yellow-and-pink Impala skates and surfboards.
Check out this bird’s eye view of the mansion, complete with giant pink slide and pool floaties spelling out K-E-N.
The ‘BARBIE’ Dream House has mysteriously appeared in Malibu.
You may recognize Barbie’s digs from the last time Airbnb offered them to guests in 2019 (below). We love how they went all in with the pink paint in the 2023 update. Talk about a makeover!
If your family is looking for a spot to enjoy some time away this summer, we’ve got some great options for you. These Airbnbs are just a short drive from Boston and have ocean views, private pools, game rooms and plenty of space for your family to spread out. We particularly love the ones with fire pits, naturally.
North Andover Stunner
Airbnb
You'll definitely feel the New England vibes of this 4-bed, 3-bath house located in the quiet hamlet of North Andover. Enjoy the pool and hot tub while you are grilling and then take on the kids in a game of volleyball or badminton. There's a children's park just a short walk away and don't miss a stop at Cows Rock for ice cream.
You'll love this location in Charlestown as there's tons to do nearby and public transit close by as well. The property underwent a huge renovation recently and you'll find a lovely kitchen and upgrades all around. Outdoor space includes a deck and grassy area.
Across street from beautiful Wollaston Beach, this house is ready for your next visit to Boston. You'll have stunning ocean and Boston skyline views and tons of restaurants within a mile walk away. Hop on the red line to the city or jump on the freeway to get there in less than 10 minutes.
Sunsets, Salty Air & Harbor Views | Marblehead, MA
Airbnb
You'll have ocean views as you dine by this home's in-ground pool. The whole family will love it! Overlooking Salem Harbor, this apartment is on the first floor with some of the best views! Neighborhood beach access is a block away and the Marblehead public boat landing is a short 5-minute walk.
Country Estate with Massive Pool | Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA
Airbnb
This 6,000-square foot home is perfectly set up to host your next family get-together. This historic home with updated with modern charm and it is only five minutes from two of New England's most beautiful beaches.
This beautiful, waterfront estate with 220 feet of ocean frontage offers all you need for a luxurious, relaxing seaside vacation. Spectacular ocean views from every room. This beautifully designed and furnished home offers all required for a luxurious seaside vacation. BBQ, heated pool, gourmet kitchen, open family room, 2 master suites, 4 additional bedrooms and 5 spa bathrooms.
When you're ready to book your next family reunion, mark this one down. It has 7 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms so you can really invite the whole crew. Views of the harbor can't be beat. You'll have access to all the amenities at Stage Neck Inn, including the indoor and outdoor pools.
This home is perfect for gathering with families. You can enjoy your meals outdoor by the fire pit and massive pool. Walk one mile to the beach to feel the sand on your toes. With two kitchens, your crew can cook up a storm.
Even if you missed the Mermaid Parade on June 18, there are still plenty of reasons to head to the seaside fun spot Coney Island. In addition to the Cyclone celebrating a landmark birthday (95!), you’ll also find new rides, new eats, new art — and all the old sun and sand favorites, too. Here’s what’s happening on, and along, the boardwalk. For more things to do with the kids, check out our Summer 2022 Bucket List, our favorite playgrounds with sprinklers and where to enjoy a meal outside with the kids.
Mimi O’Connor
Hit the Beach
Two centuries of beachgoers can’t be wrong: the surf and sand are the real reason to head out here. If you’re heading here on a weekend, it pays to know that the area in front of Luna Park and the spot around the Brighton Beach train station tend to be the most crowded. If you want a little wiggle room, aim for the stretch of sand between the two.
Food: There are no concessions in the immediate area so pack a picnic or be prepared to flag down the vendors who will come by selling cotton candy, ice cream, cocktails, and more. (Also: if you’ve got a beach umbrella, bring it.) Beaches are open with lifeguards on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Bathrooms: If you forgot the sunscreen, look for free sunscreen stations scattered around the boardwalk before you head out onto the sand. There are plenty of accessible bathrooms available but plan ahead: They’re all located by the boardwalk, which means you’ll likely be trekking back across the sand to get to them. You’ll also be able to wash off the sand at one of the outdoor sprinkler/shower stations — these tend to have a line but it goes quickly and people are generally courteous of each others’ time.
Coney Island: Take the D, Q, N or F train to Stillwell Avenue
Brighton Beach: Take the B or Q to Brighton Beach
Bike the Boardwalk
If you and the kids are early risers, then gear up and bring your bikes to the beach. Riding bicycles on the boardwalk is permitted from 6 to 10 a.m. daily. The boardwalk is a wide, flat, and mostly even surface (with some renovated areas that make for a super smooth ride) that’s a good option for little bikers. Keep in mind that it doesn’t loop, so you’ll either ride to a certain point and back or exit at any of the ramps at intervals and catch the train from there. I don’t recommend going further than Luna Park, as that marks the last train station, making getting back more difficult if your budding bikers get tired feet.
Monkey Around in the Playgrounds
You might be going to the beach for the sun and surf, but what child can resist a good playground? The sprawling Brighton Playground on Brighton 2nd is a popular option with kids of all ages for its large variety of playground equipment. The playground’s been there since the 1950s but renovations in the late 1990s added handicap-accessible areas and structures so kids of all abilities can enjoy the playground, as well. For something fun to do, send your kids on a scavenger hunt of all the marine life and Coney Island motifs that adorn the playground structures, fences and even ground.
Besides this large playground, there are also two little playgrounds right on the sand, one near Luna Park and one near the Brighton Beach train station. These don’t have much shade so be careful of little feet getting too hot on steamy summer days.
For a more active playtime, there are several volleyball nets strung up every few blocks right in the sand, as well as handball courts on West 5th Street (by the bandshell) but these tend to be taken over by older people playing. Don’t miss the tiny marine rock “playground” on the boardwalk right where the Aquarium wall begins, where kids can climb around on the rocks, complete a challenge to find all the marine life on the rocks, and have a chance to look through binoculars (with steps for shorter visitors).
Brighton Playground: Brighton 2nd St. & Brightwater Ct. (just off the boardwalk)
Get Your Thrills on New Rides at Deno’s Wonder Wheel and Luna Park
Luna Park is open for the summer and ready to thrill and excite visitors of all ages. The more daring of your group can tackle the legendary Cyclone roller coaster (for a preview, listen out to the period screams of delight that can be heard all the way from the boardwalk) and the newer gravity-defying Thunderbolt. There are plenty of choices for smaller and less thrill-seeking family members, too, like the classic teapot ride, some high-flying options, and even a firefighting ride.
This year, look out for two brand new additions to the Luna Park ride family: Tony’s Express and Leti’s Treasure. Named after the grandparents of Luna Park’s CEO, Alessandra Zamperla, these two rides will pay homage to the Switchback Railway (the first-ever rollercoaster on Coney Island from 1884) and Shoot the Chutes (a semi-aquatic ride from the early 1900s), respectively. Tony’s Express will be a family-friendly rollercoaster with over 1,200 feet of track and Leti’s Treasure will have 12 6-seater boats that will rise over 40 feet high the drop into water with a splash. Both are planned to open this summer so keep your eyes open for them.
Deno’s Wonder Wheel (The park home to the eponymous ride in between the two sections of Luna Park) also recently debuted a new ride. The Phoenix Rollercoaster (shown above), a family thrill roller coaster that join’s Deno’s healthy collection of tamer kiddie rides.)
Travel Back to the Past with the Coney Island History Project
The Coney Island History Project isn’t a very big place — it’s just two rooms — but it’s filled wall to wall with the history of the boardwalk and its many attractions. Plus: it’s free!The History Project is full of pieces from the area’s past, like Coney Island’s oldest relic (a toll house sign from 1823), and reminders of the darker rides that used to greet visitors at the amusement park (including a skull that looks stripped of its skin. Yikes).
This year’s special exhibit focuses on Barbara Rosenberg’s street photography. Taken over the course of 50 years, these photographs cover Steeplechase Park, the Polar Bear Club, Boardwalk attractions from the 1970s, and more glimpses into the history of Coney Island.
You can also check out the History Project’s podcast, Coney Island Stories, which aims to record an oral history of the area. The newest episode, “Growing Up in the 1940s,” interviews residents of the neighborhood about the hardships and delights of living in Coney Island in the 1940s.
Free
Sat., Sun., and holidays 1-7 p.m.
3059 West 12th St. (under Deno’s Wonder Wheel) Online: Coney Island History Project:
Revisit the Nabe’s Golden Age at the Coney Island Museum
The Coney Island Museum is a tribute to the history of the neighborhood, full of vintage, authentic funhouse mirrors, rare postcards, shooting gallery targets, and more. The museum also highlights all the innovations that the neighborhood’s brought to the world: Sure you might know of Nathan’s hot dog, but did you know that Coney Island introduced the first baby incubators, originally as a sideshow? Discover more interesting and historic facts, trinkets, photos, and more in the historic building.
This summer, the museum is hosting a new exhibit in collaboration with New York Transit Museum: Five Cents to Dreamland. This special exhibit brings together artifacts from both museums to paint a picture of the way transportation to the beach contributed to making Coney Island and its attractions such a great success.
$5/adult, $3/seniors, kids under 12 and residents of zipcode 11224
Sat. and Sun., 12-5 p.m.
1208 Surf Ave. Online: Coney Island Museum
Get Your Fill of American, Ukrainian, and Russian Food
Hungry? Head to the Luna Park side of the boardwalk for your pick of beachside classics like funnel cakes and cheese fries, or more traditional sit-down restaurants. There are some excellent family-friendly options by the Stillwell train station, like the classic Nathan’s, iHop, and Applebees. Head to It’s Sugar for a treat after the meal, or check out the newly opened Coney Waffle, across from the Cyclone.
But the Luna Park fare isn’t the only place to get something to earth. On the Brighton Beach train side of the boardwalk, Tatiana Restaurant and adjoining grill is a solid pick for an evening meal, and it’s especially nice if you can get an outdoor seat. Steps off the boardwalk on Brighton Beach proper (under the train), in what’s commonly known as Little Odessa, there are many ethnic Eastern European and Russian food options, whether you want to sit down and enjoy your meal or grab a treat for the road — I highly recommend potato or chicken piroshkis, which are fried bread with delicious hand-made fillings.
It’s important to note, considering current events, that although the neighborhood houses a mix of residets from Russia, Ukraine and adjoining countries, there’s been a outpouring of support and solidarity for Ukraine in the neighborhood. If you want to support Ukrainian-owned businesses, or Russian businesses that stand with Ukraine, look for Ukrainian flags hanging in storefonts. To name just two, the aforementioned Tatiana is a Ukraine supporter, as is Taste of Russia at 219 Brighton Beach Ave, which has recently rebranded as “International Food” to be more inclusive.
Julie Larsen Maher
Meet the Fishies at the New York Aquarium
Now’s a great time to see the aquatic residents of the New York Aquarium: For the first time in about 10 years, the aquarium will be completely, fully open! All the repairs from Hurricane Sandy are complete and the areas closed due to covid are reopened, so visitors can finally see the aquarium in all its glory.
To celebrate, the aquarium has opened a number of new interactive exhibits, from PlayQuarium’s touch pool to a new space that lets you watch sea lions, harbor seals, penguins, and otters frolic underwater. Learn about the impact of climate change, enjoy crafts, music, and trivia, or watch some performances at the Wildlife Theater. Don’t miss the giant octopus mural and tentacles photo-op!
The Coney Island art walls might be gone, but the artistic spirit of the community lives on. Keep an eye out for newly completed murals around the neighborhood and boardwalk.
Catching a baseball game at the stadium on Coney is a timeless treat, so don’t miss out! Catch the legendary Brooklyn Cyclones in action at the diamond. Tuesdays have special family deals: For just $20, you get a ticket, a cyclones hat, hot dog or chicken tenders, fries, and drinks. Events typically include fun extras like giveaways, fireworks, and shows.
Coney Flicks is back this year, so you can once again enjoy a movie under the stars on the beach. Catch three free screenings every Monday in the summer, starting with “Encanto” on June 27. Other movies include “Spiderman No Way Home,” “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,” “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,” and more.
The movies will be shown on a giant inflated screen, with the colorful nighttime Luna Park acting as ambient light. Screenings will begin at sundown, so times vary. Bring a towel and snacks for an evening picnic.
Check out the annual sand-sculpting contest, to be held sometime in August (exact date to be announced). After being postponed in 2021 due to rising coronavirus cases in the area, the 30th contest is set to happen this year. Every year, the event brings in expert sand sculptors for some incredible sand works of art. Check out the winners of the 2019 contest for a taste of what to expect
Appreciate the Beauty of Classic Cars
Come explore some classic old cars lined up along West 12th Street. Vote for your favorite, watch performances from the Coney Island sideshow and more.
Have you noticed the abundance of roses at your grocery store or Teddy Bears offering stuffed hearts in shop windows? That’s because love is in the air. Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and with it comes the opportunity to express your affection for your family by spending quality time together at a local event (there’s one for the animal lovers) or by participating in a fun activity (get artsy)! Read on for our top picks for things to do this Valentine’s Day.
Were the holidays too busy to catch ZooLights? Has it been a while since you and the family have explored the jungle of animals that is the Oregon Zoo? Well, you're in luck! This Valentine's Day, the Oregon Zoo will be discounting admission pricing by $4, making this outing both fun and affordable! Spend your day letting the kids fall in love with the zoo's family of elephants, or take a seat and ride the historic zoo train! Zookeepers will be putting on a special Valentine's Day show with the leopards, lions, elephants and orangutans this Valentine's Day, so head online to plan your zoo visit!
Be sure to check out the Oregon Zoo's facemask policy on their website and make sure to leave the cash at home! The zoo is currently operating as a cashless entity during COVID-19.
Why not celebrate Valentine's Day the posh way? There's nothing better than getting on your Valentine's Day best for an afternoon full of finger-food and a spot of tea! Lovejoy's Tea Room has a Royal WEE Tea Service as a kid-friendly option that offers more youthful snack options like Nutella laden treats or hot chocolate in lieu of tea. This option is for kids 12 and under, and runs $35 per tyke. Not to worry, parents. You can have the RoyalTEA Service for more sophisticated hors d'oeuvres and a bottomless tea! Head online to see their menu and to reserve your love-filled lunch or midafternoon outing today!
We all remember handing out valentines in elementary school. The rush of excitement of exchanging candies and handwritten notes with classmates is a fond childhood memory, so why not put a little crafty-effort into this year's valentine's card creation? PaperSource has tons of options for helping you and your family get into the cupid crafts this February. Whether it's classroom valentines, valentines crafts, cards, or wraps, or maybe even the works for a Valentine's Day party, PaperSource has you and your family covered! They've got discounts and sales galore when it comes to peppering your Valentine's Day celebrations with heart-shaped glitter and wordy cuteness. You can call ahead to arrange your order via phone, place an order online for delivery by Valentine's Day, or take the family for in person shopping! Whichever method you choose, you're sure to encounter the best kind of decision paralysis. Make sure to have PaperSource part of you and your family's Valentine's Day festivities this year!
Pull out the winter jackets, don your knitted caps, and step out into Portland this February for a tour of the Winter Light Festival! This year will be the seventh annual light show produced by the Willamette Light Brigade (PDXWLF), and is surely not one to miss! PDXWLF urges the community to explore their neighborhoods by checking out the pop-art that they've sprinkled across the city! Art installations with illuminated components, live performances, and touch-free events will be the name-of-the-game this year, as PDXWLF works around COVID-19. Whether you and your family set out by foot or hop on your bikes for a cycling tour of this year's displays, you can be sure to be awed! Get out, get connected, and celebrate a bit of community love this Valentine's Day with the Portland Winter Light Festival!
You can't deny that that pizza looks amazing. Similarly, you can't go wrong with getting your Valentine's Day meal from Nostrana. Whether you leave the kids at home for a cute night out with your partner, or order in for the whole family to enjoy, Nostrana has an option for you. Should you choose to dine in, this exquisite Italian restaurant is serving up a special 3 course menu for this February's evening of romance. Your mouth will surely water just by reading it. Make sure to reserve your spot before hand as seats are going fast! And if you'd like to wine and dine yourself with the family in the comfort of your own home, you can easily place a takeout order with them over the phone beginning at 5 p.m. Head online to check out Nostrana's Valentine's Day menu, make a reservation, and let the staff know about any dietary restrictions you may have!
Where: Nostrana, 1401 SE Morrison St., Portland OR 97214 When: Feb. 14, 5 p.m. Cost: For dine-in, $119/person ; takeout, varied Onlinehere
Take a Snow Day
Laura Green
If you are looking for a Valentine's Day activity in or near Portland that will turn cheeks pink and keep the kids smiling and squealing all day long? Grab the sleds and snow tubes, pack some hot chocolate and snacks and head for the hills for a day of fun in the snow. Everyone know PNW folks love their cold-weather recreation and tubing and sledding allow everyone to enjoy the late-winter fun. Head to Mt. Hood for an afternoon of snow play, or try White River or Little John snow park. Most places on the slopes require a Sno-Park Permit, available in daily, 3-day, and annual increments. Pick one up at your local DMV or at many Bi-Rite and outdoor stores. For a full list of options, with driving directions, hours and more, check out our top picks here.
Why not celebrate Valentine's Day weekend with a winter wonderland road trip? There are a plethora of of great locations perfect for mini family vacation only a short drive away. Think Central Oregon with it's Bend, Sisters, and Sun River destinations all perfect base camps for wintery outdoor recreation. Depot Bay offers its own seaside charm, and an opportunity to catch a glimpse of whale tales. Whether it's the mountains or ocean that calls to your crew, we've found several winter road trips that are perfect for celebrating your love. Check out our whole list here.
Hunt Down Sweets for Your Sweetie
pexels
What would Valentine's Day be without sweets for your Sweeties? Take your kids out for an amazing cup of hot chocolate (or purchase some to enjoy at home) at one of Portland's great shops. Creo Chocolate offers both hot chocolately drinks as well as candies you'll enjoy as a family. If you feel more like celebrating with cake, Fat Cupcake is the place to go for beautiful confections that declare your affections. For a full list of our top picks of places to check out, read about where we think you can find the best sweets for your sweetie here. You can also find a full list of our most beloved candy shops here.
Time to break out the sweaters and scarves! We’ve discovered a destination that is the definition of cozy and year-round fun. Salishan Coastal Lodge is nestled in the heart of the Oregon Coastal Range, between the stunningly beautiful forested bluffs and peaceful Siletz Bay. This tranquil destination offers something for everyone in your family and is easily accessible—no boarding passes required!
Salishan Coastal Lodge stretches over 200 acres and is filled with unlimited opportunities for adventure, exploration and fun. The number of outdoor activities available on their gorgeous property is unparalleled, with plenty of fresh experiences to dive into—including an indoor pool. Experience a cozy campfire with s’mores, practice your backhand at the indoor tennis and pickleball courts and experience true peace at their relaxing spa overlooking the bay. Indulge in “me-time,” and health and wellness with exciting local flavors to dine on and the beauty of the Oregon Coast to drink in—after the year we’ve had, we’ve earned it! And if that’s not enough to get you there, read on for 12 reasons why Salishan Coastal Lodge is your family’s dream vacay (and very well-deserved moms and dads!).
You know you need something to look forward to right about now (we do too!). These vacation rentals are the ticket. They tick all the boxes: driving distance from Boston, an easy vacation for kids and best of all, a pool for on-site entertainment. Here are our favorite vacation rentals for families near Boston.
North Andover Stunner
Airbnb
You'll definitely feel the New England vibes of this 4-bed, 3-bath house located in the quiet hamlet of North Andover. Enjoy the pool and hot tub while you are grilling and then take on the kids in a game of volleyball or badminton. There's a children's park just a short walk away and don't miss a stop at Cows Rock for ice cream.
Your family will love this pristinely-clean home in a nice suburban neighborhood for your next family adventure. The highlight is definitely the pool; bring your floaties and plan to spend a lot of time out there. Dogs are welcome and the fenced-in backyard works great if you bring them with you.
Sunsets, Salty Air & Harbor Views | Marblehead, MA
Airbnb
You'll have ocean views as you dine by this home's in-ground pool. The whole family will love it! Overlooking Salem Harbor, this apartment is located on the first floor with some of the best views! Neighborhood beach access a block away and the Marblehead public boat landing is a short 5 minute walk.
Country Estate with Massive Pool | Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA
Airbnb
This 6,000-square foot home is perfectly set up to host your next family get together. This historic home with updated with modern charm and it is only five minutes from two of New England's most beautiful beaches.
This beautiful, waterfront estate with 220 feet of ocean frontage offers all you need for a luxurious, relaxing seaside vacation. Spectacular ocean views from every room. This beautifully designed and furnished home offers all required for a luxurious seaside vacation. BBQ, heated pool, gourmet kitchen, open family room, 2 master suites, 4 additional bedrooms and 5 spa bathrooms.
This cute cottage is just a 7-minute walk to the beach and it has a lot to offer families. There's an above-ground pool and hot tub, fun loft room for the kids and fire pit for cooler nights.
When you're ready to book your next family reunion, mark this one down. It has 7 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms so you can really invite the whole crew. Views of the harbor can's be beat. You'll have access to all the amenities at Stage Neck Inn, including the indoor and outdoor pools.
This home is perfect for gathering with families. You can enjoy your meals outdoor by the fire pit and massive pool. Walk one mile to the beach to feel the sand on your toes. With two kitchens, your crew can cook up a storm.
Disney and Pixar recently released the trailer for the new soon-to-be summer blockbuster Luca! Like other top feature flicks of 2020/2021, you don’t need to head out to the movie theater to catch the animated awesomeness—because this new film will stream exclusively on Disney+.
Luca may look like an average boy. Even though he has two legs, two arms and all the other aesthetics of a human, he’s really a sea monster from another world that lies just below the surface of the ocean.
This coming-of-age tale features the voices of Jacob Tremblay as Luca Paguro, Jack Dylan Grazer as Alberto Scorfano, Emma Berman as Giulia Marcovaldo, Saverio Raimondo as town bully Ercole Visconti, Maya Rudolph as Luca’s mom Daniela, Marco Barricelli as Giulia’s dad Massimo, Jim Gaffigan as Luca’s dad Lorenzo, Sandy Martin as Luca’s grandma and Giacomo Gianniotti as a local fisherman.
Look for Luca and the Italian seaside adventure starting Jun. 18, 2021 on Disney+ and watch the trailer right now!
Get ready for a sweet new film from Netflix! The streaming provider is getting ready to share its newest feature film, Arlo the Alligator Boy.
The flick tells the story of Arlo Beauregard, half human, half alligator as he searches for his long-last father in New York City. Along the way, a deeper story of friendship and embracing our differences emerges and is accompanied by fantastic music. Keep scrolling to see an exclusive clip!
Arlo the Alligator Boy stars breakout star Michael J. Woodward, Grammy-nominated artist Mary Lambert, Jonathan Van Ness, Annie Potts, Brett Gelman, Vincent Rodriguezz III and Jennifer Coolidge. It will debut on Netflix on Fri., Apr. 16.
But that’s not all! Arlo isn’t ready to leave NYC just yet. Following the film, I Heart Arlo, will debut on the streaming platform. The show will follow Arlo and his new friends as they settle in and try to bring their new abandoned seaside community back to life. Release dates are forthcoming.
Barbie’s beau is celebrating a major milestone! Ken turns 60 this year—and he’s looking better than ever. Even though the iconic doll has gotten makeover after makeover, Mattel recently released a new version that may look familiar to fans.
In honor of Ken’s big 6-0, Mattel is releasing 60th Anniversary Doll ($50). Available starting Mar. 11, the doll is a major throw back to the original 1961 version.
Don’t expect to see a modern version of Barbie’s beloved boyfriend with this anniversary doll. Mattel is celebrating with a reproduction of the original Ken.
The beach-ready doll features a Silkstone body, red and white cotton swim trunks, brown and red sandals and a yellow terrycloth towel. Ken’s sunshine blond locks add to the relaxed ’60s seaside look.
Along with his beachy outfit, this Ken doll also comes with a “Genuine Ken” wrist tag, doll stand and Certificate of Authenticity. Find this collectible signature Ken doll on Mattel’s website here or from other retailers nationwide, such as Target or Walmart.
With 2020 firmly behind and the 2021 summer around the corner, our hopes are on the rise for the resumption of travel this year. While grateful for being relatively COVID-safe in Singapore’s golden cage, the smallness of our island has us pining for the outside.
2021 and there are 227 inhabited Greek islands. Where should we even get started?
As they say in Greece, hope dies last. Under lockdown, I’ve combed through island after island, selecting our visions of paradise for the next three summers. By now, I’ve read every major travel magazine article, little known blog post, and forum review on the destinations of interest. Each island has a tab in my spreadsheet and a file on Instagram collecting information and inspiration as I go.
Finally, I have the luxury of time to plan a vacation. A true rarity for moms. And finally, I’ve found exactly what we’ve been looking for: stylish and reasonably priced vacation villa gems located directly on child-friendly beaches in mid-size Cycladic seaside villages. Day trip options for semi-private cruises to neighboring islands with out-of-this-world beachscapes. Where to send the kids for a pottery workshop while in Sifnos…Any trip from here will never be so well planned. And as parents with the load of baggage we carry, some volatile with surprises, invaluable is a seamlessly organized holiday.
The simulation of travel in the planning process soon became therapeutic escapism. From home, I visualized us on that beach house patio with a cool glass of Assyrtiko in hand. Slowly sipping, we watch the kids frolick in fine white sand as the sky changes color. Later, we take an evening to wander through cobblestone paths of whitewashed villages, alive with the soul of Greece. I deviate to shop online for kaftans. I think we will dine at a Greek restaurant tonight.
Sure, I may have to cancel everything a month before June but herein lies a precious exercise in non-attachment and letting go: There is meaning in learning to defer to forces beyond our control. So much of our days as parents never go as planned anyways. And if the process of pursuing an end result designed to bring happiness, instead dominates with anger and frustration, what then is the point of the whole endeavor?
Savor the planning, inhabit the surprises, heal if you must, and journey on. Enjoy the entirety of your travels, and consider 2021 an opportunity for the most well researched you, ever. Whether in a summer sojourn, or the journey of life.
A restless city-loving Singaporean learning how to be still, embrace the antithesis of her husband's Greek nature and homeland, and master motherhood. After moving from Athens, we now live in Chicago, and are set to return to Singapore for a proper village welcome of our second baby.
