Travel

Our 4th Trip to Woodloch: Why This Award-Winning Family Resort Will Always Be Our Happy Place

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This is a sponsored post. All opinions within are my own.

If you’ve been following Realm of Vibes for a while, you know that Woodloch Resort in Hawley, PA is one of our all-time favorite family vacation destinations. We’ve visited four times now, and every time brings new experiences and entertainment. Our most recent trip was packed with activities, relaxation, amazing food, and the kind of family memories we’ll be talking about for years.

For this stay, we checked into the Springbrook One Bedroom Suite, which is perfect for families needing extra space, easy access to activities, and a comfortable home base. It’s become our go-to room category, and if you’re planning a Woodloch trip with kids, consider this your sign.

Family Activities at Woodloch: Something for Everyone

One of the reasons we keep coming back is the huge list of family-friendly activities Woodloch offers. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a full week, you’ll never run out of things to do.

Pro tip: bring a highlighter for the daily activity sheet to prioritize what activities are important for your family

On this trip, our family enjoyed:

  • Jewelry making
  • Painting and arts & crafts
  • Storytime and reading
  • Marshmallow roasting (a must!)
  • Bumper cars — twice, because the kids insisted 😂
  • Indoor pool, hot tubs & splash area (we spent 5 hours here on Saturday!)
  • Lakeside walks
  • Mini golf
  • Outdoor and indoor playgrounds
  • Teaching the kids bocce ball
  • And yes… Mom and Dad even snuck in sauna time 🙌

If you’re looking for a Poconos family resort with nonstop activities, Woodloch is genuinely unmatched.

The Iconic Woodloch Horse Races 🐴

A highlight of this trip? The Woodloch horse races, which are a longtime resort tradition. You “bet” on wooden horses, cheer with your table, and get way more competitive than you’d expect. It quickly became a new family favorite — fun, silly, nostalgic, and uniquely Woodloch. Emilia and Nicholas loved shouting their horses number and listening to Scooter call out the dice numbers. Although we didn’t win, we had a really fun night out and the kids were thrilled to be out past bedtime.

Dining at Woodloch: Don’t Skip Dessert

Meals are included at Woodloch. Every meal is delicious, comforting, and kid approved. I always love the delicious salads, seasonal soups, homemade breads, and entrees that I wouldn’t typically make at home (i.e. pork shank). The kid’s menu is always available, and you can order your meals to go, like we did for lunch on Saturday. Eating poolside is a vibe! If you’re planning a visit, here are two must-dos:

✔️ Order the Mud Pie for dessert (even if it is not featured, they always have it!)
✔️ Order baked goods to bring home

We went home with cookies, blueberry bread, and crumb cake. Zero regrets.

If you love all-inclusive family resorts with great food, this is your place.

Why Woodloch Continues to Be Our Happy Place

Woodloch has earned countless awards for a reason. The staff, the activities, the dining, the traditions — everything is designed to help families relax, reconnect, and actually enjoy time together.

From the giggles on the bumper cars to the concentration during crafts, the peaceful moments by the lake, and the wild energy in the indoor playground… every moment feels special.

For us, Woodloch is our happy place, and it continues to deliver unforgettable family getaways year after year.

Planning Your Family Trip to Woodloch?

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive family resort in the Poconos, a place where everything is taken care of and memories practically make themselves, Woodloch is it.

👉 Ready to plan your own Woodloch getaway? Book here using code VIBES25 (applicable stays only) to get 10% off your stay! Drop a comment or send me a message — I’m happy to help you choose the best room, best time to visit, and top activities for your family!

Be sure to check out our Ambassador page and visit Woodloch on Instagram!

Inside the Grand Reopening of ShopRite Belleville – A LoCurcio Family Market

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October 19, 2025 marked an exciting milestone for Belleville and the surrounding communities: the grand re-opening of ShopRite of Belleville, which is a part of the LoCurcio Markets family. From the first gleaming shelf to the aroma of fresh-baked goods, this isn’t just a supermarket relaunch, it’s a celebration of community, connection, and the kind of everyday experience that turns grocery shopping into something special.

The Legacy Behind the Name

The LoCurcio family has been a name local shoppers trust. Their roots in New Jersey grocery stretch decades, and their stewardship of community markets reflects a personal touch you don’t always see in big box chains. In Nutley, for instance, their ShopRite location (at 437 Franklin Avenue) has become somewhat of a local gem being praised for its fresh produce, vibrant specialty departments, and even live pizza-oven action. You can read my blog on our experience at the LoCurcio Markets ShopRite of Nutley location here.

That same dedication and attention to detail are now featured in Belleville, and it’s worth noting this is not just a takeover of shelves, it’s an infusion of a family-driven ethos into an important local hub.

Our Experience at the Grand Re-Opening

Here’s a preview of what shoppers can look forward to — and what we had the pleasure of experiencing — at the ShopRite of Belleville:

✨ Stunning produce & cheese displays
Expect freshness front and center with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and an expanded specialty cheese selection (featuring both local and international favorites). We sampled the Thumann’s pastrami and ended up buying a whole pound — the kids absolutely loved it! Dietz & Watson also had a great spread of artisan cheeses and premium meats. Jason devoured the buffalo chicken sandwiches and charcuterie cups. I adore when stores offer samples; it’s the best way for my kids to discover new favorite foods.

🍕 Live pizza, made to order
Watching a chef toss dough and bake a pie in minutes is not just fun… it’s a delicious reason to linger (and order more). The kids keep asking, “Mom, when are we going back to the supermarket with the delicious pizza?” We even saw guests ordering pumpkin pizza on our way out!

🎂 The expansive bakery
The kids loved the cake pops and were mesmerized by the beautifully decorated Halloween cakes which were spooky, colorful, and totally creative! Nick got the chocolate cake pop while Emilia chose a strawberry cake pop. I got a bite of each and boy, they were very tasty!

🍪 Seasonal décor & products
We stocked up on festive finds like holiday creamers, cookies, and LoCurcio sprinkles to get in the spirit of the season.

🥗 Prepared foods & ready-to-go meals
Perfect for busy families and professionals, the new store features a robust prepared foods section with salads, empanadas, grilled entrées, sandwiches, a hot bar, and a cold bar. Jason grabbed a sandwich while I opted for a salad to enjoy at home, both delicious!

🌼 A community-first atmosphere
From the floral and plant section to kid-friendly touches like the toy aisle and locally sourced products, the new Belleville ShopRite feels personal and welcoming, more than just a grocery trip, it’s a place to explore.

💰 Competitive pricing + value
The LoCurcio family continues their tradition of pairing specialty appeal with everyday affordability, so shoppers never have to choose between quality and savings.

The Details of LoCurcio Family Markets — Belleville

Address: 726 Washington Avenue, Belleville, NJ 07109
Instagram: @locurciomarkets
Facebook: LoCurcio Markets
Website: Their ShopRite.com profile highlights the LoCurcio family’s four-generation legacy, celebrating their deep roots in the community and commitment to making every shopping experience fresh, local, and family-focused.

Join the Celebration

If you stop by, take your time to explore, grab a slice, and share your finds — maybe it’s a gooey cheese pull, a delicious cake pop, a local product, or your favorite aisle setup… and don’t forget to tag #ShopRiteBellevilleReopening and #LoCurcioMarkets when you post on Instagram and Facebook!

Have you visited any of the LoCurcio Markets locations? (Belleville, Nutley, or Kearny)

Let me know in the comments!

Family Fun Weekend at Roscoe Campsite Park, Roscoe, New York

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Fall in the Catskills is pure magic—and this year, our family found the perfect way to soak it all in with a Family Fun Weekend at Roscoe Campsite Park. Jason and I have been to Roscoe before and usually stay at the River House at Trout Town Farms, just down the road. But this trip was extra special: it was our first time bringing Emilia (7), Nicholas (3), and our 11-year-old rescue pup, Gino, for a true camping adventure. Spoiler alert: everyone had the best time.

Our Luxury Tent Stay

Forget what you know about “roughing it.” Our luxury tent at Roscoe Campsite Park felt more like a boutique cabin in the woods. With a king-size bed for us and bunk beds for the kids, there was plenty of space for the four of us to spread out. The kids thought the bunks were the coolest thing ever, while Jason and I loved sinking into the king bed after busy days of exploring.

The tent came with a full bathroom (yes, a clawfoot tub in the woods!) and a shower, which made things so easy with kids. Outside, we had a picnic table, a grill under a gazebo, and even a cozy egg chair on the patio where we enjoyed slow breakfasts and lunches together. At night, the space transformed into our own little sanctuary under the stars.

Of course, no trip to Roscoe is complete without a stop at Grizzly Bagels in downtown Roscoe. We always recommend their famous Jalapeño Cheddar bagel with scallion cream cheese, lox, tomato, and capers—it’s our go-to breakfast every single visit. The kids love the cinnamon raisin bagels with cream cheese. Fresh, flavorful, and the perfect fuel for a day of family adventures in the Catskills.

Another tradition whenever we’re in town is stopping by Roscoe Beer Co. to grab a few of their locally brewed favorites. Jason and I especially love the Streamside Pilsner—crisp, refreshing, and the perfect pairing with a classic campfire hot dog fresh off the grill. There’s just something about sipping a cold local beer under the stars while the kids run around that makes camping feel complete.

First Night Magic ✨

The moment we arrived, the weekend kicked off with one of my favorite camping traditions: roasting s’mores around the fire. Emilia and Nicholas were in heaven toasting marshmallows, sticky fingers and all. As the sun set, the whole campsite gathered to watch Hocus Pocus on the big screen—pure Halloween season vibes. It was the perfect way to start our getaway.

Farm Fun at Trout Town Farms 🐐🐓🦙

On Saturday, we joined the farm tour at Trout Town Farms, and it quickly became one of the kids’ favorite activities. They got to feed alpacas and goats, pet Gloria, the resident turkey, collect fresh eggs from the chicken coop, and even enjoyed a honey tasting. Their faces lit up as they learned where food comes from—Nicholas proudly carried his egg like it was gold, while Emilia loved feeding the alpacas.

During the tour, we also got to peek at the new Mountain Pool Trout Loft property, another unique place to stay in Roscoe. Jason and I immediately added it to our list for a future trip—it’s such a cool option for anyone who wants a mix of comfort and nature.

Pumpkins, Play, and Pure Joy 🎃

Later that day, we went pumpkin picking at Trout Town Farms, and the kids carefully picked out “the perfect ones.” Back at Roscoe Campsite Park, they decorated and carved their pumpkins during Wine & Cheese Night, while Jason and I enjoyed local wines, cheeses, and a live band. The kids danced their hearts out to the music, did arts and crafts, wore glow bracelets, and even got goodie bags filled with nostalgic toys like spinners and candies. Seeing their joy was everything.

Outdoor Adventures 🚴‍♀️🏀🐕

One of the best parts about staying at Roscoe Campsite Park is that there’s something for everyone. We spent time walking along the riverbanks, skipping rocks, and splashing in the water. Being in nature was such a reset for all of us—it really does feel good for the soul.

The kids also got plenty of time to run free. Emilia and Nicholas loved the playground, raced each other down the slides, and made new friends. We all shot hoops at the basketball court, and Gino had the time of his life exploring the dog park—his first official camping trip, and he was so happy.

We even learned how to press apples into cider. Emilia cranked the press with all her might while Nicholas cheered her on, and together they made apple cider that tasted even sweeter because they worked for it. Those little moments are what make family trips so special.

Why We Loved This Trip ❤️

Looking back, this trip was more than just a weekend getaway. It was about watching Emilia and Nicholas live their best lives—running, playing, laughing, and experiencing new things. It was about Jason and I slowing down, unplugging, and enjoying the simple joys of being together as a family. And it was about Gino finally joining us for a trip he could enjoy too in his golden years.

Plan Your Family Camping Trip in the Catskills 🏕️

If you’re looking for family camping in the Catskills that combines the beauty of nature with the comfort of home, Roscoe Campsite Park is the place. Whether you’re in a luxury tent like us, an RV, cabin, or another rental, you’ll find endless ways to make memories.

👉 Book your stay at RoscoeCampsite.com. Don’t forget to use code REALMOFVIBES15 to save 15% off your stay!

Trust me—you’ll want this experience too.

See my carousel and highlight reel on Instagram for a detailed look into our trip. Be sure to visit Roscoe Campsite Park and Trout Town Farms on Instagram, too.

Below is a Pin for you to save to your travel board.

Beach Days, Balconies & Beyond: Staying at Turtles Up in Surfside Beach, South Carolina

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When we plan a family getaway, we’re always looking for a place that feels like home, but with just the right amount of vacation magic. On our recent trip to Surfside Beach, South Carolina, we found that sweet spot at Turtles Up, a spacious 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom beach house that checked all the boxes for relaxation, comfort, and fun.

The House: Room to Relax & Reconnect

Walking into Turtles Up, we were instantly struck by how much space there was. With five bedrooms and four and a half bathrooms, everyone had their own little corner to recharge. No waiting in line for showers, no bumping elbows—just plenty of room to spread out. We loved the full kitchen with coffee from Sheepdog Java.

Turtles Up has three balconies, each offering a different view and vibe. Whether sipping coffee in the morning, enjoying a quiet evening breeze, or sneaking away for a little “me” time, the balconies quickly became some of our favorite spots. I personally loved sitting on the balcony journaling and reading my book club selection.

And then there was the private in-ground pool, which was a total game-changer. The kids loved splashing around while Jason and I could lounge poolside, and it was the perfect way to wind down after a day at the beach. Speaking of the beach, it was just a short walk away, so we had the best of both worlds, saltwater and sand or private poolside lounging, depending on our mood.

Turtles Up makes beach and pool days completely effortless by supplying all the gear you could possibly need—no need to pack anything from home. Just outside by the pool, there’s a convenient closet stocked with everything for fun in the sun, so you can simply grab and go. The outdoor space itself is a retreat, featuring a picnic table perfect for poolside dining, cozy Adirondack chairs set under a fan for comfort, mood lighting that makes evenings feel magical, and even an outdoor television so you don’t have to miss the game while you’re enjoying the fresh air.

Be sure to visit my Highlight Reel on Instagram, and catch my reel on Turtles Up!

Getting Around: The LSV

Another highlight of our stay was renting a 6-seater Low Speed Vehicle (LSV) from RDR4Carts with the Journee Rentals app. The LSV, a sleek model from Star Electric Vehicles, made getting around Surfside Beach a breeze. It was perfect for quick trips to grab food, explore local shops, or cruise to the beach without having to worry about parking, or lugging all of our beach gear. Plus, the kids loved riding in it which added a fun twist to our daily adventures.

Dining Out: Hard Rock Café, Crabby George’s and Bojangles

No beach trip is complete without some good eats, and Myrtle Beach delivered.

Dinner at Hard Rock Café Myrtle Beach was a total hit. Jason went all in with the Tampa Burger, while I treated myself to the Cowboy Ribeye—so flavorful and perfectly cooked. The kids were happy campers with their cheese pizzas, Nick pairing his with fries and Emilia opting for fresh red grapes. We kicked things off by splitting a plate of buffalo wings (my personal favorite), sipped on a signature Hurricane cocktail and an ice-cold draft beer, and finished with the ultimate sweet treat: a fudge brownie sundae that disappeared in no time. Beyond the food, we loved walking around and soaking in the incredible rock ’n roll memorabilia, from Jimi Hendrix to Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Macklemore, Miley Cyrus, and Trent Reznor. Between the fun atmosphere, the flavorful dishes, and the unbeatable vibe, it was a night to remember. Check out more from that night here.

We also ventured to Crabby George’s Seafood Buffet, where we happily loaded our plates with seafood favorites. It was one of those meals where everyone found something they loved—whether it was endless crab legs, buttery garlic shrimp, or all the classic sides that made it impossible to stop at just one plate. I especially loved trying my very first South Carolina crab, Jason couldn’t get enough of the shrimp, and while Emilia and Nick played it safe with their go-to pizza and fries, they surprised us by trying—and loving—the hush puppies. To top it all off, the kids were thrilled with the self-serve ice cream machine, making dessert just as exciting as dinner. Crabby George’s truly had something for everyone and made for a fun, family-friendly night out. Check out a peek at our experience here.

No trip to the South is complete without trying some local fast favorites, so we made sure to stop at Bojangles for the very first time. Famous for their fried chicken and biscuits, it did not disappoint. The kids devoured the seasoned fries, Jason went straight for the chicken sandwich, and I couldn’t resist the macaroni and cheese and sweet tea. It was quick, flavorful, and definitely one of those “when in the Carolinas” experiences we were glad to check off our list.

Family Adventures: Huntington Beach & Ripley’s Aquarium

Beyond the house and the food, we made time for family adventures that made this trip extra special.

At Huntington Beach State Park, we got to slow down and soak in the natural beauty of South Carolina. We started with a visit to Atalaya Castle, then let the kids run off some energy at the playground before treating ourselves to ice cream at Snowbill’s. Along the way, we spotted alligators basking in the sun, colorful birds, and even made a stop at the wildlife center, where we watched a turtle chomp on a worm and learned about the different bird species that call the park home. Between the trails, the wildlife, and plenty of snacks to keep little hands busy, it was the perfect way to balance out the busier parts of Myrtle Beach with a slower, quieter, and more nature-filled day.

We also spent time at Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, which was an absolute hit with the kids. Emilia was over the moon seeing a real-life axolotl—her absolute favorite—while Nick couldn’t get enough of the bearded dragon and the massive hammerhead and sawtooth sharks. Jason kept pointing out all the vibrant, colorful fish, while the kids bounced between the interactive exhibits and touch tanks, loving the chance to get hands-on with marine life. They could have spent hours in the goldfish realm, and honestly, I don’t think any of us wanted to leave. Watching their curiosity light up was one of those core memory moments that makes family travel so worth it. It was truly the perfect blend of fun and learning for the whole family. Check out a peek at our visit here. Be sure to also check out their Instagram.

Why Surfside Beach is Perfect for Families (and Everyone Else)

Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a couple’s escape, or looking for a place to reconnect with friends, Surfside Beach has something for everyone. Turtles Up gave us the comfort and convenience we needed, while local dining and attractions gave us plenty to explore.

This trip gave us the perfect balance of rest, adventure, and togetherness; the very thing we were hoping for. If you’re searching for a destination that blends relaxation with fun, Surfside Beach delivers every time, and Turtles Up is the home base that makes it all unforgettable. We can’t wait to return!

Be sure to follow Turtles Up on Instagram and Facebook and pin the image below to your travel Pinterest board!

Our Oceanfront Escape in Ocean City, MD: Salty Sands #202 through OCVH.NET

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If you’re looking for a beachfront escape in Ocean City, Maryland that blends comfort, convenience, and coastal charm, let me tell you about our incredible stay at Salty Sands #202 — a beautifully updated oceanfront condo that gave us the beach vacation of our dreams!

Fun fact: Jason and I used to visit OCMD before we had kids, and now we are super excited to share our family-friendly adventures with you. It’s such a full-circle moment to watch Emilia and Nicholas enjoy the same beaches, boardwalks, and attractions we once explored as a couple. There’s something really special about creating new memories in a place that already holds so many of our own.

We booked our stay through OCVH.NET, which is Ocean City Vacation Homes, a local property management company with a wide selection of rentals. Their website made browsing and booking so easy, and the customer service that the property managers provide was responsive and professional throughout the entire process.

One thing we loved about Ocean City Vacation Homes is that every property has its own vibe — from cozy bayside cottages to luxe oceanfront condos. Some rentals even have pools, rooftop decks, and other fun extras that can take your stay to the next level. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with young kids, or a big group, there’s truly something for everyone.

🏖️ About Salty Sands #202

Located at 2 46th Street, Ocean City, MD 21842, Salty Sands is a mid-rise condo building right on the ocean. Unit #202 is a gorgeous, recently updated oceanfront unit that offered everything we needed and more.

From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean right from our private balcony. The condo was clean, modern, and felt like a true home away from home. Some of the highlights included:

  • Elevator access – super helpful with kids and beach gear!
  • Designated parking spot – no need to search or stress about parking.
  • Private beach locker – such a convenient perk for storing sandy toys, chairs, and umbrellas.
  • Fully equipped kitchen, updated decor, and a cozy living area where we could relax after long beach days.

We loved being just steps from the sand — morning coffee on the balcony with the sunrise and falling asleep to the sound of waves? Yes, please.

🎢 Family Fun at Jolly Roger Amusement Parks

We kicked things off with Splash Mountain, located at 30th Street, and it was the perfect way to cool down and kick off our Ocean City adventures. With over 17 water slides, a lazy river, and a huge kiddie splash area, there’s truly something for everyone — though we stuck to the more family-friendly attractions.

While we didn’t venture onto the major thrill rides (maybe in a few years!), we watched older kids and teens having a blast on them — there’s no shortage of heart-pounding slides for those seeking adventure.

Emilia and Nicholas especially loved Pirate’s Cove, the giant pirate-themed splash playground with water cannons, fountains, and slides made just for younger kids. They also had a blast in the wave pool, laughing as the waves rolled in and jumping over them together. The green and yellow slides were huge hits too — fast, fun, and just right for their age and comfort level.

We all enjoyed a peaceful float around the Lazy Lagoon, a relaxing river ride that winds through the park and gave us a nice break from the excitement.

We were pleasantly surprised by how clean and well-maintained the bathrooms were — always appreciated when you’re visiting with little ones! There were also plenty of food options throughout the park, from classic boardwalk-style snacks to quick, kid-friendly meals and icy treats to beat the heat.

Splash Mountain was exciting for the kids, easy for parents, and full of smiles all around.

🎠 Rides and Games Galore

We had to visit Jolly Roger at the Pier, right on the boardwalk. This was an absolute highlight of the trip — the atmosphere is classic coastal carnival fun!
Our favorites included:

  • The carousel, which Emilia wanted to ride again and again.
  • The ferris wheel, that Emilia & I loved
  • The teacups, where Emilia & Nick spun themselves silly
  • Carnival games that brought out our competitive side (and yes, we did win a plush prize!).

Since the Pier is right on the boardwalk, we were able to shop, grab snacks, and take a sunset stroll without moving the car. There’s something magical about the sound of the ocean blending with the laughter of kids and the nostalgic jingles of boardwalk games.

On the same night, we also visited Jolly Roger at 30th Street, which is especially perfect for younger kids like Emilia (7) and Nicholas (3.5). This location has a variety of gentle rides and attractions that cater to little ones, making it super manageable and fun for families with small children. From the mini cars and spinning rides to the easygoing pace and shaded seating areas, it was the kind of park where we could let the kids explore and enjoy without feeling overwhelmed. It was a relaxing and joy-filled experience that truly hit the mark for our family.

✨ A Perfect OCMD Stay

Between our stay at Salty Sands #202 and the endless entertainment at Jolly Roger, this Ocean City vacation was everything we hoped for. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a couples’ getaway, or a multi-generational vacation, I can’t recommend booking a rental through Ocean City Vacation Homes enough. It was the perfect launchpad for adventure and relaxation — and we already can’t wait to return.

Make sure you follow Ocean City Vacation Homes on Instagram & Facebook and Jolly Roger Amusement Park on Instagram.

Have you ever stayed in Ocean City, MD? What are your favorite boardwalk spots or beach activities? Drop them in the comments below — I’m always looking for inspiration for our next visit!

Be sure to save the Pin below to your travel board!