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When I went on my first Rhone River Cruise with Viking last year, I was a complete newbie. I had never been in that area of France and I didn't know much about the area prior to the trip. We had done our amazing Rhine River Cruise with Viking in 2017 so I was familiar with European River cruising but I searched for the best packing lists for the Rhone River as I didn't want to forget anything in all of the excitement! I narrowed a few items down that we found to be the most helpful and practical and here are five things that people often forget to bring on their first Rhone River Cruise
1. Local Currency
One of the most important things that you can do to prepare and bring on your trip is some of the local currency where you will be going. You can do this ahead of time at your bank or at a local vendor which will result in less fees than if you use a money exchange booth in an airport. While some people would prefer to use their credit cards - which is great, you will still need to have money for tips or for small shops that don't take credit cards so make sure to prepare for this ahead of time. I personally found that while many of the places took credit cards (especially in the bigger cities like Lyon), the smaller towns that we visited (like Arles) shop owners thanked me for using cash instead of a credit card as I spoke with them.
2. Passport Holder/Wallet
You will need to have your passport with you and I would definitely recommend carrying it with you at all times, even while you are on excursions. I use my wallet which is an older beautiful green Travel & Passport Wallet that is no longer available, but is very similar to THIS ONE and I love it!
You will need to have your passport with you and I would definitely recommend carrying it with you at all times, even while you are on excursions. I use my wallet which is an older beautiful green Travel & Passport Wallet that is no longer available, but is very similar to THIS ONE and I love it!
If you are looking just for a Passport Holder and don't want the entire wallet- there are so many different adorable passport holders that are available today! A favorite I found (for less than $10!) is THIS ONE (which has more than 22,000 amazing reviews and comes in TONS of different colors!!) The best thing is that many of the colors are currently are on sale!
3. OTC Medications
While it is true that you can purchase all different over the counter medication when you are off the ship- it can be more pricey and also be difficult to find depending on where you are traveling. There were several pharmacies at different places we stopped (so it is not impossible) but it is just easier to bring your medications with you. Most Rhone River Cruises do not have a doctor but there is a basic first aid kit available. You will want to think ahead and bring some of your own items.
Prone to seasickness when you travel? River Cruising is a beautiful answer for those that may struggle with this, but I did meet a few people on our cruise last year that were seasick. If you are very sensitive- definitely check out my post 4 Ways to Prevent Motion Sickness when Traveling by clicking HERE!
Even though river cruising is an excellent choice for those who are prone to seasickness, there were still some people who said the movement on our cruise was difficult to them. A lot of people use Dramamine (or the patch) for motion sickness on a cruise which is a wonderful option, but ginger can be a great natural resource to help with nausea. You can read more about ginger and its health benefits by clicking HERE. I have mentioned this in several posts but I swear by THIS ginger here. It is organic and for less than $15 you can save yourself a whole lot of sickness!
4. Comfortable Shoes/Sandals
I shared this in my post, 13 Must Pack Items for Your Caribbean Cruise, but it is a definite thing to remember. Pack comfortable shoes and sandals!! You definitely want to look cute and have fun, but you don't want your cruise ruined by blisters either so take the time to pick out cute and comfy shoes. On a river cruise you do TONS of walking and you will want to make sure your shoes are comfortable!
5. A Watch
I was surprised to hear this suggestion from those who had done a lot of river cruising but honestly, have now seen the value in having a watch. One of the best parts of a cruise is having the chance to take a break from the "real world" and simply enjoy the moment. But if you are wanting to make sure that you are ready to meet for excursions, meal times, etc. and want to put away the phone, you will want to know the time. Five years later, and I still love my fitbit versa and totally recommend it! You can find it HERE!
What about y'all? Any items that you wish that you had brought on your first Rhone River Cruise that you would recommend to a first-time cruiser?
Read more about our amazing Rhone River Cruise below:
And here are some cruising tips from over the years of blogging!
Cruising Tips:
Happy Tuesday friends! I hope you have a wonderful day!
personal finance semester bundle five star review / caravan sonnet classroom / teachers pay teachers
May 11, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5 STAR REVIEW⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“This bundle has lots of great resources in it! I loved the inclusion of holiday related finance assignments! ” /Potts Party/
Rating: 5/5 (extremely satisfied, met expectations, great value)
Today I am so honored and humbled to share a new 5 star review on one of the resources in the shop! This Personal Finance (Growing) Semester Bundle resource has been a long time favorite in the shop! You can find it HERE!
THANK YOU SO MUCH for your kind review Potts Party!!! I SO appreciate you taking the time to share your experience and your kind words! It is truly humbling and I am so excited that you are very satisfied with your purchase and that you love the holiday resources!! I am looking forward to completing the units and will be continuing to send new resources with this growing bundle! Thank you again for taking the time to leave such a kind review!
This bundle includes ALL of the powerpoint presentations and resources lessons with colorful and animated sections for Personal Finance for an ENTIRE semester!! With over 1585 powerpoint presentation pages/slides/PDFs/Classroom Decor Posters/Activity/Google Classroom Covers/Bell Ringer Questions for the ENTIRE semester, and Keys and more! (1586 to be exact!!) you will be ready to have a foundation to teach your personal finance class for a semester!
**NOTE: This is a growing bundle and more resources will continue to be added including lesson plans, more powerpoints, classroom activities, classroom assignments, and SO MUCH MORE!! This bundle is currently at a full semester with 125 resources and more than 1539 pages but will grow to be approximately more than 120 resources when it is finished hopefully by July 1st, 2026.
A growing bundle means that you purchase an incomplete resource at a discounted price. As more resources are added, the price will go up so purchase it while it's at the lowest price! Please don't hesitate to reach out with any additional questions! I am happy to answer!**
Click HERE to go directly to this resource!
Have you left a review on a product that you have purchased from the classroom?
I want to give you a FREE GIFT!
Thank you so much again for all of your support of the shop! I know I say that all of the time, but you are a blessing! I am so glad you are here! And to say thank you, I want to share about a small thank you gift that you can receive!!! Community matters deeply to me, and your reviews truly help this small, independent shop continue to grow. So I am offering a small gift- if you leave a review in the Caravan Sonnet Shoppe, you can choose one FREE resource (up to $3 in value) as my thank-you.
How it works:
1. Leave a review on any resource in the shop
2. Email me at caravansonnet@gmail.com
3. Tell me which resource you’d like
4. I’ll send it to you directly as an attachment
It’s my way of saying thank you for supporting thoughtful, real-world teaching. Truly—it means more than I can say.
Happy Monday friends! I hope you have a wonderful day!
Modern social gatherings frequently occur within
digital spaces, offering a convenient way to maintain connections without the
logistical hurdles of travel. A successful evening relies on how well you
create an environment that can mimic the energy of an in-person event.
You can transform a standard video call into a
highlight of the week by focusing on how participants interact with the screen.
Moving away from passive viewing towards active participation ensures that
everyone stays involved throughout the night instead of simply watching a
broadcast.
Choose the Right Platform and Test It First
Selecting
a reliable video tool prevents technical delays. You
should pick a service that supports high-definition screen sharing and secure
login features to ensure all participants are of age for specific games.
Conducting a brief trial run twenty-four hours
before the start allows you to adjust microphone settings or update software.
This preparation guarantees that guests enjoy the activities immediately
instead of waiting for you to fix connection errors.
Pick Games That Translate Well Online
Digital events require activities that function
smoothly across different devices. You should choose games that rely on verbal
prompts or simple visual cues, as these reduce the risk of lag interfering with
the experience.
Many hosts find that integrating a few rounds
of free bingo sessions provides a consistent rhythm to
the night because the rules remain clear on any device. Opting for
straightforward mechanics keeps the focus on social interaction rather than
complex navigation.
Set Clear Rules to Keep Things Moving
Setting a basic framework for how guests interact
helps you manage the natural delay found in online communication. You can
introduce a system where guests use a digital icon to signal when they wish to
speak.
This method prevents people from accidentally talking
over one another and ensures that quieter group members feel comfortable
contributing. Clear guidelines maintain a steady pace and stop the session from
becoming a series of interrupted sentences.
Create a Theme to Boost Engagement
A visual theme
provides a sense of occasion. You
might ask your guests to select a coordinated digital background that fits the
night's aesthetic. This simple creative choice serves as a natural conversation
starter and breaks the ice when everyone first joins the call. By adding this
layer of personality, you encourage people to lean into the festive atmosphere
and feel more involved.
Keep Group Sizes Manageable
Large video calls often lead to screen fatigue as
participants struggle to track multiple faces. You should limit your invite
list to a group of six to eight adults to ensure that everyone stays visible on
the main display.
This manageable size allows for fluid conversation
where you can easily spot if a guest appears disengaged. Keeping the group
small preserves the intimacy of the event and makes the game logistics easier.
Plan a Strong, Memorable Finish
Ending the event while energy remains high ensures
that guests leave with a positive impression. You can schedule a final,
fast-paced round that brings the whole group together for a definitive
conclusion.
Communicating a clear end time helps people manage
their schedules and prevents the evening from fizzling out into awkward small
talk. This structured exit leaves participants feeling satisfied with the
experience and looking forward to the next invitation.
*contributed post*
Alt text: Teenage Girl Reading Book - Image link: https://www.canva.com/photos/MAEgH74j3vo/
Travel has always been one of the greatest teachers. Every new destination introduces children
to different cultures, foods, traditions, and ways of thinking. At the same time, books give young
readers the ability to explore places and ideas long before they ever step onto a plane or pack a suitcase. When travel stories and educational books come together, they create a powerful combination that inspires curiosity, creativity, and confidence in children.
Families today are looking for more meaningful ways to help children learn outside traditional classrooms. Whether through real-world travel or imaginative storytelling, kids benefit when they are encouraged to ask questions, think independently, and explore the world around them. Educational books and travel experiences naturally support these goals.
Why Curiosity Matters In Childhood
Curiosity is one of the most important traits a child can develop. Curious children are more likely to enjoy learning, solve problems creatively, and stay engaged with new experiences. They are also more open to understanding perspectives different from their own.
Travel encourages curiosity because children are constantly exposed to unfamiliar environments. Even a simple road trip can spark questions about geography, history, architecture, or local customs. Visiting museums, parks, or historical landmarks often leads to conversations that continue long after the trip ends.
Books extend that sense of discovery. A child who reads about ancient civilizations, wildlife, entrepreneurship, or world cultures begins to build connections between stories and the real world. Educational books help children understand why places matter and how people live differently across the globe.
When parents combine travel experiences with reading, children begin to see learning as an adventure instead of a task.
Stories Help Children Connect With The World
One reason travel stories are so powerful is that they make unfamiliar places feel personal and
relatable. Children often remember lessons better when they are connected to stories instead of facts alone.
For example, reading a story about a family exploring another country can teach children about traditions, languages, and history in an engaging way. Fiction and nonfiction both help children emotionally connect with the people and places they encounter.
Books also prepare children for future travel experiences. A child who reads about marine life before visiting an aquarium or coastal town is more likely to feel excited and engaged during the trip. Similarly, reading about national parks, famous cities, or historical events can make travel feel more meaningful.
Travel stories encourage empathy as well. Children learn that people around the world may have different lifestyles, beliefs, and experiences. This understanding helps young readers become more compassionate and open-minded as they grow.
Educational Books Build Independent Thinkers
Modern parents and educators increasingly value learning that goes beyond memorization.
Educational books can help children develop critical thinking skills by encouraging them to ask
questions and analyze ideas.
Books that focus on economics, history, entrepreneurship, or problem-solving often introduce concepts in ways children can understand. Instead of simply giving answers, many educational stories encourage kids to think through situations independently.
This type of learning becomes even more impactful when connected to real experiences. For instance, visiting a marketplace while traveling can teach children about trade and budgeting in practical ways. Exploring historical landmarks can bring history lessons to life.
Families searching for engaging educational materials often choose to shop Tuttle Twins books because the stories combine learning with entertaining adventures that encourage independent thinking. These kinds of books can complement both travel experiences and homeschool learning routines without overwhelming children.
Travel Encourages Learning Beyond The Classroom
Traditional classrooms play an important role in education, but children also learn through observation and experience. Travel naturally creates opportunities for hands-on learning.
A trip to a farm may teach children about agriculture and sustainability. Visiting another country can introduce them to foreign languages and customs. Exploring nature trails may spark an interest in science or environmental conservation.
Even everyday travel experiences can teach valuable lessons. Airports, train stations, maps, and public transportation systems all encourage problem-solving and adaptability. Children begin to understand how communities function and how people interact in different settings.
Educational books can reinforce these lessons before and after travel. Reading about geography before a trip helps children feel more connected to the destination. Reading afterward helps them reflect on what they experienced.
This combination creates a cycle of curiosity where books inspire exploration, and exploration inspires more reading.
Homeschooling Families Benefit From Travel-Based Learning
Many homeschooling families already understand the value of combining education with real- world experiences. Travel allows children to see lessons in action rather than simply reading about them in textbooks.
Historical sites become living classrooms. Museums turn abstract concepts into tangible experiences. Cultural festivals provide lessons in art, music, language, and tradition.
Books play an important role in helping homeschool families structure these experiences. Educational reading materials can guide discussions, introduce important topics, and encourage deeper learning before and after trips.
Travel-based learning also helps children develop adaptability and confidence. They learn how to navigate new situations, communicate with others, and become comfortable with change. These life skills are valuable far beyond childhood.
For families unable to travel frequently, books can still create a sense of exploration at home. Reading about different countries, historical eras, or scientific discoveries gives children access to experiences they may not encounter every day.
Reading And Travel Strengthen Family Connections
One overlooked benefit of combining books and travel is the opportunity for family bonding. Shared experiences often create lasting memories, especially when families learn together.
Parents who read travel-themed books with their children can spark conversations about destinations, cultures, and goals. During trips, families can connect over shared discoveries and experiences. After returning home, children often enjoy revisiting memories through journaling or additional reading.
These moments encourage meaningful communication between parents and children. Instead of focusing solely on screens or entertainment, families spend time discussing ideas, asking questions, and learning together.
Books also help children process travel experiences emotionally. A child who felt nervous about a new destination may become more comfortable after reading stories about similar adventures. Likewise, books can help children reflect on what they learned during a trip.
The Lasting Impact Of Curious Learning
Children who grow up surrounded by stories, travel experiences, and educational opportunities often develop a lifelong love of learning. They become more confident exploring new ideas and more willing to engage with the world around them.
Curiosity does not simply improve academic performance. It also helps children become adaptable, empathetic, and creative adults. These qualities are increasingly important in a rapidly changing world.
Travel stories and educational books work together because both encourage children to think beyond their immediate surroundings. They show young minds that learning can happen anywhere, whether on a family road trip, in a museum, or while reading at home.
Parents do not need expensive vacations or complicated lesson plans to inspire curiosity. Sometimes a simple story, a meaningful conversation, or a local adventure is enough to spark a child’s imagination.
By combining books with real-world experiences, families can create learning opportunities that feel exciting, memorable, and deeply personal. In doing so, they help children develop not only knowledge but also the curiosity and confidence needed to explore the world for years to come.
*contributed post*
Family trips offer the perfect opportunity to create new lasting memories with your loved ones.
Whether you’re visiting a bustling city or enjoying a scenic road trip, these moments of adventure
provide a chance to connect in ways that everyday life may not allow.
However, amidst the excitement of new destinations and activities, maintaining your usual health and
fitness routine can become a challenge. The changes in environment, schedule, and even food choices
can disrupt the habits you’ve worked hard to maintain.
Nevertheless, staying fit and healthy while traveling as a family is entirely possible. It just requires a bit
of planning and flexibility. Here are some simple strategies you can easily incorporate into your trip
without compromising the fun or quality time with your loved ones.
Fit in Quick, Effective Workouts
It can be tough to squeeze in time for a full workout when traveling with family. Between sightseeing,
family meals, and bonding activities, the thought of exercise often gets pushed aside.
But you don’t necessarily need to work out for hours to stay fit. Short yet effective exercises can help
maintain your routine and boost energy levels. Simple bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and
lunges can be done in your hotel room or any open space. Ten to fifteen minutes of high-intensity (HIIT) interval training can also keep you in shape and energized. Even a quick run or jog does wonders to improve your stamina, especially when you enhance your endurance by taking effective supplements like energy gel, electrolyte drink, caffeinated beverage, or black currant powder for running beforehand. Setting aside a small window for these quick workouts allows you to stay active and enjoy the trip without missing out on family time.
Use Your Accommodations’ Gym During Your Free Time
Many accommodations offer gym facilities or equipment that can be great for staying active on the go. If you have some free time, take advantage of the gym to fit in a quick cardio session or strength workout. Even if the gym is small, just a short session on the treadmill or a few sets with dumbbells can keep your routine intact. This provides a simple way to maintain your fitness during your downtime.
Walk or Bike to Nearby Attractions
One of the easiest ways to stay active while traveling is by walking or biking to nearby attractions. These activities are great low-impact exercises that improve cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles, and boost your mood.
Apart from providing a great workout, biking or walking also lets you experience the area in a more
intimate way. It allows you to see things you might miss when traveling by car and helps you stay active
without cutting into your sightseeing time. Plus, it’s a great activity you and your family can do together, which helps everyone stay engaged with the destination.
Add Healthy Food Options to Your Meals
While family vacations offer opportunities to enjoy indulgent meals, it’s still important to eat healthy.
Incorporating fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins into your diet helps support your energy levels and
overall health, making it easier to keep up with the activities in your trip.
That said, add lighter options, like salads, grilled meats, or plant-based dishes, when dining out. This
way, you can still taste the local cuisine while keeping your meals nutritious. If you’re planning to cook
at your accommodation, pick up fresh produce, whole grains, and healthy snacks to incorporate into
your meals. With a little planning, you can balance out heavier meals with healthy choices, helping you
stay nourished and energized for all your adventures.
Incorporate Rest Days into Your Travel Plans
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of exploring new places, but it isn’t always a good idea to
overload your itinerary with constant activities. Doing too much in one day can quickly lead to
exhaustion, leaving you drained and less able to enjoy the experiences ahead.
That’s why it’s important to schedule rest days during your trip. Taking a break from the hustle gives
your body time to recover and avoid burnout. It also ensures that you can continue the rest of your trip
with more energy and enthusiasm.
Rest days don’t necessarily mean staying in your room all day. They can also include light activities, like taking a leisurely walk around a park or enjoying a quiet afternoon at the beach. Spending your rest days like this helps you unwind and refresh, ensuring you’re ready for the adventures to come.
Get Enough Good Sleep
Adequate sleep is crucial for staying energized during a family trip. Skimping on rest can leave you
feeling fatigued and less engaged with the activities ahead.
To get the most out of your sleep, aim for a consistent bedtime each night. If you’re adjusting to a new
time zone, try easing into the change by gradually shifting your schedule before you travel. Creating a
calming environment—whether it’s by dimming the lights, using earplugs, or playing soft music—can
also help signal to your body that it's time to wind down. Prioritizing sleep helps you maintain focus and enjoy your trip without feeling drained.
Family vacations are meant to be fun and memorable, and staying healthy along the way only enhances
the experience. The simple act of making mindful choices can keep you energized and ready for
whatever the day brings. As a result, you’ll have more energy for adventures and get to enjoy every
experience you share with your family.
contributed post
Happy Thursday friends! For today's Thursday Health Thought I am excited to start a new series over the next few months on the connection between money and health. Lately I’ve been thinking a great deal about the connection between money and health. Not in a trendy “wellness” way. But in the very real ways financial stress affects the body, mind, and daily life.
The exhaustion. The sleeplessness. The constant pressure of survival mode. The way stress quietly steals joy, creativity, energy, and rest.
For a long time, I thought financial rebuilding was only about numbers, but I’m beginning to realize it is also about healing. About creating margin. About living more gently.
About rebuilding a life that feels sustainable physically, emotionally, and financially.
So I am excited to begin talking more openly about that here.
Because beautiful living is not only aesthetics. It is peace, rest, and feeling safe enough and stable enough with finances to breath again deeply.
I am so excited for this series and hope you will enjoy it! Stay tuned to start this beautiful series next week!
When you leave Paris for the most charming Medieval City in Normandy…
Just a little over 2 hours by train, it truly felt like stepping into another century. Cathedrals that inspired Monet, cobblestone streets, architecture that was artistic, history that was around every bend, and cozy romantic spaces that make you want to linger forever.
Rouen you are truly incredible. If you are traveling to Paris make this part of your plan to visit. You will not regret it. Comment “Rouen” and I will send you more inspiration from my time visiting this beautiful area of France.
See more pictures from my beautiful time in Rouen HERE!
Caravan Sonnet | Normandy History | History Professor
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