• About
    • RSMLVTravel
      • About RSMLV Travel :: Luxury and Family Vacation Planning
        • Currently In
        • Plan It Yourself
        • Where To Go Now
      • RMLVTravel Client Profile
      • Concierge Services and Fees
      • Contact RSMLVTravel
    • RockStarMomLasVegas
      • Stefanie Van Aken || Writing Portfolio
      • Media Kit
      • Rate Sheet
  • Travel Inspiration
    • USA
    • International
    • Disney
  • Lifestyle
    • Products
      • Don’t Leave Home Without It
    • Services
    • Tips
  • RSMLVTravel :: Luxury and Family Travel Planning
    • Luxury
      • Resorts
      • Cruises
      • Tours
    • Family
      • Resorts
      • Theme Parks
    • Disney
      • Disneyland
      • Walt Disney World
      • Aulani Disney Hawaiian Resort
      • Disney Cruises
      • Adventures by Disney

Stefanie Van Aken

~ RSMLVTravel- Luxury Travel Design

Stefanie Van Aken

Tag Archives: rockstarmom recommends

Sol Republic Tracks Air Wireless Headphones

15 Friday Aug 2014

Posted by Stefanie Van Aken (RSMLVTravel) in Fun

≈ 10 Comments

Tags

rockstarmom recommends, Tech, Trends

Last year my husband was given a set of really cool headphones, like the stylish, DJ looking ones. He sports those puppies every time we get on a flight, rocking out a bit to his music, ignoring the rest of the world…or at least ignoring his four children while I looked on envious of such assistance to block out the noise. Other times, he would grab his iPad and headphones and hop in bed to catch up on his shows while I listened intently to our flatscreen’s built-in speakers from across the room. On the treadmill I would tug at my ear buds, continuously readjusting and popping them out every now and then to give the insides of my ears a break. A few months ago, I got smart, and whenever he wasn’t using his headphones, I would grab them and enjoy the total silence of outside influence where I could totally focus on me. So awesome. You know what’s even more awesome? Sol Republic contacted me and asked if I would review a pair of their headphones. Even better? They are wireless headphones! OK, my headphones just beat up my husband’s headphones.

Sol Republic Tracks

In case you didn’t know, I have four kids, I work in social media, and I write. I also travel and workout. Let me tell you how much I love love love the wireless component. I am totally, well almost totally, hands-free and can move about without wires getting caught up or in my way. That alone won me over. The ability to throw on a comfy pair of headphone that will connect automatically to my phone while I can multi-task is a wonderful invention. It’s actually better than sliced bread.

Sol Republic Tracks Wireless Headphones

What I loved about the Sol Republic Tracks Air Wireless Headphones:

Look and Style ~ Sleek and stylish, and comes in sophisticated color options. Plus, the headphones come with a handy carrying case to keep everything in place.

Easy Connectivity ~ All I did was turn on my Sol Republic Tracks Air and they automatically started searching to my bluetooth connectivity. Just make sure bluetooth is enabled on your phone or tablet first. Guess what? Got Bluetooth on your TV? Your Sol Republic Tracks Air wireless will connect!

Dual Connectivity ~ Listening to tunes? Watching a movie? Got a call? No problem. Switch easily with a touch of a button on the headphones.

Clear Sound ~ All I can hear is my music or movie. Happy mommy when I need a much needed break, traveling in a crowded airplane, or trying to get work done in between pick-ups at a coffee shop.

Battery Time ~ Love how when I turn on my Sol Republic Tracks Air the first thing it tells me is how many hours of air time I have. 7 hours is the fully charged capacity.

Wireless or Wired ~ This comes in handy more ways than you know. Treadmill, cleaning the house, talking on the phone, sitting at the computer made easier with your comfort level of wireless or not. Also increases battery life when using the wires.

On the Go ~ I wore the headphones in the wireless mode as much as possible. There is definitely a no-slip factor, which I am attributing to the comfy cushion under the headband. I also wore the headphones with the wire on the treadmill one day. Walking, running and hiking at a 10% grade uphill didn’t get the headphones to budge. Not sure I would wear them all the time to run in, but it was nice to have the comfortable, oversized earphones instead of the annoying ear buds in my ears for an hour.

What You Should Know:

Adjustment ~ The one thing I do not love about the Sol Republic Tracks Air is the adjustment. Actually I’m kind of torn. On one hand, it is difficult to move the earphones up and down the headband. On the other hand, the headband does not do the adjusting, allowing for smaller heads to have a more concise fit. I was able to place the earphones in the exact right spot for my size, and also for my three year old’s size. Not that I would buy him his own pair, but for those moments when you need a set of headphones, and yours are all you got, it’s kind of nice that they fit on the littles as well.

Wireless Mic ~ When I say almost hand-free using the wireless option with my iPhone, I still had to hold the phone’s mic up to my mouth to speak so the other person could hear me. Thus, not making it as hands-free as I would like. Overall, though the sound quality was great.

sol republic tracks air

Sol Republic offers different lines of headphones, including wired, and earbuds. Check out this very cool collection of collegiate. Great Back to School gift for those headed to college this fall, or even just for the college football fan in your life. Might be a nice way to compromise during football season??

sol republic collegiate #RSMLVSol

Sol Republic Tracks Wireless Headphones can be purchased at Best Buy.

sol republic instagram

 

As a lifestyle blogger I was given a pair of Sol Republic Tracks Wireless Headphones in exchange for a review on my site, RockStarMomLV.com. All thoughts, opinions and words are 100% my own. 

Top Attractions for Family Summer Fun in Las Vegas

27 Friday Jun 2014

Posted by Stefanie Van Aken (RSMLVTravel) in Featured

≈ 16 Comments

Tags

Family Travel, Las Vegas, rockstarmom recommends

Looking for some air conditioned fun this summer with the family? I have recently checked out some very hot spots in Vegas. Here’s my list of top attractions for family summer fun in Las Vegas.

Please note, my family and I were guests of Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum Las Vegas, The High Roller Las Vegas and Wet’n’Wild Las Vegas. All words and thoughts are 100% my own.

1. Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum Las Vegas tops my list this summer. It is a place I have seen in major cities around the world, and one I never thought I would ever take the time to visit. I am glad I did. In my husband’s words, “It’s cooler than you think it is going to be,” and he is spot on. Start your journey through celeb-laiden rooms with a quick family pic in front of the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” photo drop.  Each room is wild because the wax figures seem so real, it actually feels like you are mixing and mingling with some pretty fabulous peeps. The kids loved it because they could get up close and personal with some of their favorite stars, musicians and pro-athletes. And, it ‘s a very hands-on museum as props are available to make the experience even more real. If your kids are into Superheros, do not miss the 4-D Avengers show at the end of the tour. It is included in your ticket price, and is quite impressive. (This is a full sensory experience with 3-D glasses, and the sensation that you are really in the movie. I brought my 10, 8 and 3 year old twins who all loved it. My 6 year old nephew was freaked out and had to leave early. Obviously, trust your instinct with your kid’s personality on this one.) madametussauds.com/lasvegas (Read the whole review here.)

2. The High Roller Las Vegas is another great way to keep your family entertained and out of the sun. From the moment you enter the High Roller Lobby, you are transformed into a futuristic atmosphere filled with lively music, light shows and entertainment. Your Virtual Guide walks you through the experience while waiting to ride to the top. Stop at the bar before getting on, (non-alcoholic bevs available) and step into a pod built for approximately 30 guests. Your Virtual Guide meets you again once inside, and starts the count down to the top- an exhilarating 550 feet- where it becomes one big party with fun dance music and celebratory visuals of the Las Vegas Strip and surrounding valley. Book your ride close to sunset to get the ultimate experience of both day and night (can’t beat those desert summer sunsets). There are also great summer deals right now for both locals and visitors. One full ride around the wheel is about 30-minutes.   caesars.com/thelinq/high-roller (Read the whole review here.)

3. Sprinkles should be your next stop once off the High Roller. This legendary west coast cupcake bakery now has roots in Vegas. Located at The Linq, it is just a few steps off the High Roller. Day or night, Sprinkles will hit the spot. If you are unfamiliar with the tasty treats, I suggest trying the mini- cupcake first or the kid’s cone for ice cream. Each are priced at $2 and the perfect portion size to try something new. Line too long for a cupcake? Take a walk around the corner to the 24-hour Sprinkles Cupcake ATM. Swipe your card, make your cupcake selection, and it is magically delivered. Cut that puppy in fours and share with the group. sprinkles.comtop attractions for family summer fun in las vegas

4. Wet’n’Wild Las Vegas is still rocking the summer fun with exciting water slides and the brand new Tornado. If you ever wondered what it was like to ride in a real tornado, here’s your chance. The ride will drop your 4-person raft 36′ into a 110′ tunnel before entering the eye of the storm. It was a wild ride, and ultimately, our most favorite, actually tied with the Desert Racers. You can spend the day at Wet’n’Wild with either cabana rentals, covered lounge chair areas, or plenty of open space to park your brood. Or, do what we do…rent a locker, purchase an Express Band, and go from ride to ride in a matter of hours. No outside food or drink is allowed, but there is a park nearby with covered picnic benches for an hour of down time (just make sure to get your hand stamped for re-entry!). Also, check rider requirements on-line before heading out. There are a few like the Hoover Half Pipe where riders need to meet height and weight requirements in order to ride. Season Passes still available, along with Twilight Hours ticket specials. For more photos of Wet’nWild Las Vegas click here. wetnwildlasvegas.com

5. The Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay offers an impressive indoor aquarium for kids of every age. See ferocious piranhas, a Komodo Dragon, a rare Golden Crocodile, and the electrifying Jelly Fish tank. Ocean aficionados will love the Touch Pool, and all will be awed by the 1.3 million gallon tank with over 30 different kinds of sharks. All of this while also learning about the eco systems and necessity of keeping our oceans clean, conserving on land, and protecting the creatures within. My 3-year old twins loved our visit there, and cannot wait to go back. They were fascinated with the touch pool, the jelly fish tank, and of course, getting to see the sharks up close and personal. Nevada Residents with ID receive discounted tickets. Ages 4 and under are free. sharkreef.com

6. Discovery Children’s Museum Las Vegas creates a different experience no matter how many visits you make in a week, month or year. This summer Scholastic’s Magic School Bus Kicks Up a Storm, is the new traveling exhibit at the museum until September 1, 2014. Ms. Frizzle’s Classroom is transformed into a Weather Observatory where visitors can explore visitors can explore the water cycle and its relation to weather, and how influences from air, heat, water and land combine to create weather through these three interactive environments. Very hands on and lots to do, though each age will understand it differently. The twins were intrigued by the movement of air, while my 8 year old was more concerned about how it all worked. discoverykidslv.org

Are you on Instagram? Follow me @RockStarMomLV and use #RSMRecs to discover all the places I personally recommend in Las Vegas, on or off the Strip. 

Thank you to Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum Las Vegas, The High Roller Las Vegas, and Wet’n’Wild Las Vegas for the opportunity to experience these family friendly attractions in Las Vegas. I was asked to write a review in exchange for mine and my family’s passes. All opinions, however, are based on my personal experience and are honestly written.

RockStarMom Recommends :: For Your Little Entourage

09 Friday May 2014

Posted by Stefanie Van Aken (RSMLVTravel) in Featured

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

kids trends, rockstarmom recommends

RockStarMom Recommends is a featured round-up series of products, projects, or places to be I discover on my own, or ones that were sent to me via sponsorship or media opportunity. I will always let you know which is which, and I will only feature topics I would or have bought, participated in or travelled to myself. 

This week’s RockStarMom Recommends features products, projects and places to be for you and your little entourage!

1. The new American Girl® Doll Historical Character books  and American Girl® Craft Books for Spring 2014 | My daughter’s eyes grew as big as saucers when I presented her with the new American Girl® Historical character book, The Traveler’s Tricks: A Caroline Mystery (sent to me for review by American Girl®). Not only is Caroline her absolute favorite, but she’s also a Nancy Drew fan at heart. The combination of the two is a win/win for her, and me, especially for summer reading. The craft books are a great way to keep minds engaged and hands busy. We are big fans of both at our house! Historical character mystery books retails for $6.95, craft books prices vary. americangirl.com

2. LEGO Store Las Vegas | It is the first of its kind in the entire state of Nevada, and the kids in Vegas are stoked about it! Of course, much smaller than the giganotosaurus stores you may be used to at Downtown Disney or other mega-mall, but it works! At the grand opening kids had the opportunity to help a LEGO Master Builder build bricks to help design the R2D2 at the front of the store. Once inside, the same cool features you would find in any other LEGO store, like the Pick a Brick wall, also features the 3-D interactive Digital Box that displays what the final creation inside your box will look like. Your kids will be entertained for hours. Located at the Fashion Show Mall.

3. Eat Cleaner To-Go Wipes | I am a fruit cleaner freak. I have all kinds of fruit and veggie cleaners under my sink, and everything gets washed. What annoys me the most? When I am out around town or traveling and want a piece of fruit that I have not purchased and cleaned on my own. Anal, I know. It’s the little things I guess. Let me tell you how excited I was to receive these Eat Cleaner To-Go Wipes to review. Love them. Threw them in my bag one day when I was out with the twins, and what do you know? I was using them for everything! Not only to clean the apples they wanted from the market, but also to wipe their hands, their faces, the fork they kept dropping, the list goes on. Biodegradable and all-natural so they can be used on everything. store.eatcleaner.com

RockStarMom Recommends Little Entourage Collage

4.Snugwugg® |I just have to give a shout out to a colleague who has been working on this project for over a year now. Lisa Cash Hanson was an award recipient of the Huggies MomInspired Grant for her invention, the Snuggwugg. After all her hard work and perseverance, the Snuggwugg finally gained a US Patent and is on the market! Here’s what the Snuggwugg® does: a multi-use smartphone interactive pillow ages 3 months to 4 years. Can be used with smartphone or toys, or flashcards. Ends kicking and squirming during diaper changes, is great during travel in car seats and planes, perfect for tummy time and play. Great baby shower or welcome to the world gift! Retails for $39.95.  Snuggwugg.com also available on Amazon

5. The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa, Scottsdale, Arizona | OK, so it’s not much of a break from the Las Vegas heat, but Scottsdale does offer some pretty remarkable activities and cultural discoveries for the family. A quick plane flight or 6-hour road trip, the whole family can enjoy this summer vaca (even mom!). From May 26 through Sept. 1., the resort will offer guests a buy one, get one Kierland FlowRider session, an “Aloha Package” welcome amenity, $50 food and beverage credit, and rates from $149 per night. What is also killer about the Westin Kierland Resort & Spa is the location. Just a few steps away, the Kierland Commons has a great collections of shops and some of the best places to eat in Scottsdale…my favorite is the Zinc Bistro. kierlandresort.com

6. Hold On Handles | By looking at this product, doubts may arise. I am here to tell you, these things work! I, too, was a non-believer. Come on…twin toddlers are really going to hold on to those handles and not run away from you? Especially my twin toddlers? Yup. Given the choice of whether they wanted to stroll or walk? They chose walk every time. The compromise? They had to hold on to the handles or they had to go back in the stroller. Guess what? They never let go of their handle unless they got too tired to walk. I have seen these used also in grocery stores (on the carts) and even latched on to the back of dad’s pants. If you are struggling with your toddler who is discovering that independence can be kind of fun, give them the illusion of choice and see if they work for you. If they worked for my boys, am pretty sure they will work for anyone else’s kid! Retail prices vary $19.99 to $27.99. greaterthanonekids.com

Thank you American Girl® and Eat Cleaner Wipes for the chance to review your products for today’s post.

← Older posts
Stefanie Van Aken Luxury Travel Designer
Stefanie Van Aken Instagram
Stefanie Van Aken Luxury Travel Designer
Stefanie Van Aken
Luxury Travel Designer
E: Stefanie@RSMLVTravel.com
Virtuoso Luxury Travel Stefanie Van Aken
Virtuoso Family Luxury Family Travel Stefanie Van Aken Luxury Travel Advisor

Proudly powered by WordPress Theme: Chateau by Ignacio Ricci.