I'm Carrie McLaren, based in Jacksonville, Fla. Family travel is my passion - and I've made it my job.
Over the years, I’ve worked with Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, local visitors bureaus, large resorts, Carnival Cruise Lines and VISIT FLORIDA in showcasing the best spots for traveling families. I’m also a member of the Society of American Travel Writers (SATW) and the Family Travel Association.
I’m ready to share my travel experiences, tips, deals and more to inspire you to plan the ultimate adventure with your own family. From theme parks to cruises, beaches to off the beaten path spots – I want to help you succeed in making fantastic memories with your family.
While I developed my love of travel as a kid, I began my travel career in 2003 as a public relations professional at Visit Jacksonville, promoting my hometown to media and visitors. From working the media center at Super Bowl XXXIX to traveling the country sharing stories about the First Coast, it was tough to call those seven years a ‘job’ – I loved it!
When I became a mom, I knew I wanted to continue my love of travel with my children. I created Carrie with Children, as my online outlet to share parenting stories and to tell the story of our daughter Molly, born with Down syndrome.
From there, I became the VISIT FLORIDA Family Insider where, together with my family, we traveled the state exploring family friendly places around the state. We discovered glamping, beachfront resorts, great diners with fantastic, fresh seafood and more. From feature videos to written articles and social media work – we discovered some fantastic spots around the Sunshine State.
And that brings us to Carrie on Travel. My goal here is to inspire you to create your own family memories. Travel along with my family and let’s start planning your own magical vacation!
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