Indianapolis Zoo

This summer we had the opportunity to visit the Indianapolis Zoo while visiting Indianapolis for the first time. The zoo is located within the White River State Park and just a short walk from downtown.

The entry admission was inline with what we have paid at other large zoos. This summer it was right around $22 for an adult and around $16 for a child when purchasing a ticket at the gate. You can purchase discounted tickets online as well. Our schedule for this trip was a bit up in the air, and we weren’t certain on weather so we choose to risk it and just buy our tickets at the gate. This zoo is the first I have seen with “peak” pricing. The zoo has lower online ticket fees on days with lower projected attendance and higher ticket prices on days with higher projected attendance. Really, I think this is a brilliant way to help balance out the number of people visiting the zoo and a great way for those with flexible schedules to save some extra money.

At the gate we had decided to upgrade my daughter’s ticket and get the unlimited rides and animal feedings. That was the best $12 I’ve ever spent. She absolutely loved feeding the birds in the Flight of Fancy area. At the particular time we were near the birds her only option was to feed the budgies and lorikeets and it was great. I lost track of how many times she went back for refills of bird food.

We were impressed with how clean and spread out everything was within the zoo. It was also easy to find our way around. The signage was nicely spread out and clearly labeled.  We were able to see a lot of exciting animals up close. My daughter loved seeing the bears, seals, sharks, and flamingos.

The food at the Pavilion Cafe was amazing. I was honestly expecting typically quickly-made, greasy food but we were able to choose from some really fresh, delicious options. I had some really good street tacos. I was extremely impressed with their commitment to the environment and recycling. Beverages were served without lids or straws (unless asked for), and utensils were separately distributed — not wasted. Even the gift shop had the option to either carry your items out or to purchase a reusable bag in lieu of a plastic bag.

If you find yourself in Indianapolis, or even nearby, I would strongly recommend visiting the Indianapolis Zoo. Set aside at least a half day to walk around and snack while you are there.

Indianapolis Zoo
1200 West Washington Street
Indianapolis, IN  46222
317-630-2001

Arriving in Sayulita, Mexico

If you are looking for a place to visit where you can relax, and experience a more authentic Mexican vacation I would definitely recommend visiting Sayulita.

After a trip to Europe with my mom and sister  fell through a friend of mine offered for me to join her in Sayulita, Mexico for a week. My friend and her two daughters were spending their entire summer break there and were looking forward to welcoming company. I had never heard of the town, but was in need of a getaway and couldn’t resist the idea of being in walking distance to the ocean for a week.

The easiest way to fly into Sayulita is via the Puerto Vallarta International Airport. After going through Customs and Immigration you’ll want to take a quick bathroom break, withdraw some pesos from a cash machine then follow the signs to exit the airport. Once outside I’d grab a bottle of water and a snack at the OXXO convenience store across the two lanes of drop-off/pick-up car. Pay with one of your larger pesos you just withdrew so you have cash for the bus ride.

Now you are ready to head towards the bus stop. This will be the cheapest way to get to Sayulita. Walk back towards the airport. There is a pedestrian bridge that crosses over the freeway. Once across the bridge, walk to the first bus stop on your left.

You will now be looking for the Ruta Sayulita de Sur a Norte. When the correct bus arrives it will have “Sayulita” written on the front window. Depending on the time of the day, the cost will be $1-3. You can pay the bus driver directly in pesos. Grab a seat anywhere and settle in as the ride takes a little over 1 hour.

The ride itself is a bit slow while in Puerto Vallarta as there are a few stops and lots of traffic. Once you get out of the city the ride goes much faster and you are treated to amazing views of mountains, jungles, and unaltered nature. The seats are very snug and there isn’t exactly room for large luggage. We had brought carry-on sized bags so were able to hold them on our laps or at our feet.

Once in Sayulita, the bus will pull into a simple station with a covered awning and benches underneath. From here you are a short walk to your accommodations and, more importantly, the beach. Along your walk are several restaurants, shops, and street vendors to visit. I strongly recommend the fruit smoothies!

The return times are posted in the bus stop so either take a peek when you arrive in Sayulita, or go for a walk during your vacation to check bus pick-up times. When the bus arrives, make sure it says “Puerto Vallarta” on the window. To be on the safe side, I’d confirm with the driver that it stops at the airport/aeropuerto.

Passports for Minors

Did you just book your first international trip with your kiddo? Congratulations! It will be a wonderful time to explore together and share lots of memories. The first thing I would do is get started on applying for a passport.

The whole process can seem a bit overwhelming as it has many steps spread out over a period of time. As long as you get started right away, and at least 8-10 weeks prior to your trip, you should be just fine.

First of all, you will need to have a photo taken of your child to submit with your passport application. I have had really great experiences taking our passport photos at Walgreens. They will be able to take the photos in the correct size and format and usually have it ready for you in less than 15 minutes.

Next, download the DS-11 passport application from the U.S. Department of State’s website. Complete the required fields, but do not sign the document until you are in front of a passport agent.

You will next need to provide an official U.S. Birth Certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Citizenship. Make a photo copy of your citizenship evidence to submit with your application. The copies must be legible, black and white print, on a white 8 1/2 x 11″ paper, and single-sided.

When applying for passports for minors, you will also need to provide proof of parental relationship for the child’s legal parent(s) or guardian(s). A U.S. Birth Certificate will serve as both proof of citizenship and proof of parental relationship. Other acceptable forms include; a foreign birth certificate, adoption decree, or a divorce/custody agreement. If you have any concerns regarding providing the right documentation, I’d reach out to the National Passport Information Center at either 1-877-487-2778 or npic@state.gov.

Feeling overwhelmed yet? Don’t worry – you are almost ready to apply!

Locate a Passport Acceptance Facility near you. Some require an appointment to be made, while others offer walk-in service. I can’t stress enough to call ahead and confirm their specific process. You will need to provide all of your documents, photos, and proof of identification with you.

Packing List:

• Completed DS-11 (wait to sign)
• Passport photo
• Birth Certificate or other proof of citizenship (original and copy)
• Proof of Parental Relationship
• Photo ID (original and copy)
• Checks (one for Application Fee, one for Acceptance Fee)
• Minor applying for passport
• Additional legal parent or guardian (if applicable)

Once submitted, you can expect to receive your passport in the mail in 4-6 weeks.

If you have an unique circumstances, or need the passport ASAP – consult the Department of State right away to prevent any delays in receiving your passport.