When hubby and I were still dating, we did travel a lot. We did a lot of fun things together. I am glad of those big and small trips that we did. We sometimes reminisce those days and it never fails to make me smile.
For our 8th year Anniversary , I was on the look out for something fun , exciting and new to experience with my family. I got really excited about the Gondola Getaway! First of all, it is just in Long Beach. Second, we have not experienced it yet. We live about 1 hr and 45 minutes from Long Beach but we did other fun things too while we were at Long Beach! That is also one of the things I love, is that you can plan your day in the vicinity. There are plenty of things to do!
I kept this getaway as a secret from my family. They literally found out when we were in front of their location. Needless to say, our girls were so excited. The Gondola Getaway may seem like a "couples thing" only. Let me be the one to tell you that it is not! While it would cater more to romantic couples, our girls ages 6 and 4 were so happy! As soon as we arrived, Mac greeted us and the whole staff was so friendly and accommodating. Mac was so good with kids too, he gave our kids a small cup of shells! Which we all decided to make a picture frame craft and use it for our gondola experience. You will not be intimidated at all. Believe me, I don't do fancy. Our gondolier, Max was equally nice, kind and easy to talk to.
Here's gondolier Max, with our girls.
You would need to arrive early for your booked reservation. While we waited , we enjoyed the view and told the girls what to expect.
We booked for 7pm, so we can wait for the sunset. We brought snacks with us ( corkage may apply ), but they do have other kinds of cruises. You can book a brunch or a pizza getaway!
We were so lucky that the temperature that day was so nice! We brought sweaters because I know it can get chilly but they do provide blankets. Our Gondolier Max mesmerized our girls, he was very accommodating to them. Patiently answering their multitude of questions. He was also knowledgeable on the area , he was actually like a tourist guide too. You will not be bored for sure. And the houses?!! My word, beautiful houses! This picture doesn't do justice.
When we reached one of the bridges, Max graced us with a song. That guy can sing! I did advocate "The Voice", I said he should definitely join "The Voice". I know..., I'm a TV nut too.
Obviously, our girls loved and enjoyed the singing too. Guess who gave Max some singing too, yep..our girls. Not to be outdone, they did sing to the tunes of Baby Beluga and Dora the Explorer. Never a dull moment for sure.
How about this for a view ? That is an excellent way to end our day long celebration! My husband totally enjoyed this experience. A great experience that we can deposit on our kids memory and family getaways bank. One that we can look back and smile .
About the Gondola Getaway:
Established in 1982, the authentic and original Gondola Getaway brings old world charm and thousand year old tradition to Southern California. Authentic Venetian gondolas gently cruise the enchanting canals and waterways of Naples Island, near the resort area of Belmont Shore in Long Beach, CA. The Gondola Getaway offers relaxing and romantic cruises from 11:00am to 11:00pm, 7 days a week. Each cruise is approximately one hour. Receptionists accept reservations Monday-Sunday 10-5. They have the first and largest fleet in America. Gondola Getaway is the best Gondola experience in America!
This a perfect romantic or even family getaway experience!
My readers get to save 15% off Gondola Cruise! Receive 15% off a 1-hour
Gondola cruise for any size group! Cruise the beautiful Alamitos Bay and
Naples Island Canals!
The Gondola Getaway
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