Mom Knows Best
Whether you travel far or near, journey across the pond or simply beyond state lines, a trip with your mother is always special. Four BERGEN readers reflect on the “mommy and me” adventures they’ll never forget—and why.
Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
“This summer, my mom and I went to Tanzania to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest freestanding mountain in the world. With the help of porters and our favorite guide, Shabani, we successfully reached seven different summits. Those seven days of hiking were the most challenging yet best of my life, and I’m so glad I got to experience this adventure with my mom. Family members had suggested we go hiking out West, but my mom wanted to do something huge and different. I was really nervous at first and secondguessed our decision, but my mom’s encouragement convinced me to push myself out of my comfort zone. It’s an experience I’ll never forget, and I cherish the time my mom and I got to spend together.” —Abby O’Connell, Wyckoff
Dublin, Ireland
“My mom has traveled all over the world, but the one place on her bucket list was Ireland. When she told my daughter and me about her plan to visit, we were more than happy to accompany her! How often do three generations of women get to go on an international vacation? We began our adventure in Dublin before touring the Irish countryside. Looking back, our favorite spots were Galway, the Cliffs of Moher and Trinity College. After recently celebrating my mother’s 90th birthday, I’m happy we were able to fulfill this lifelong dream of hers.” —Dee Alt, Mahwah
Botanical Garden, Bronx
“My sister, mom, daughter and I visited The New York Botanical Garden last year as a belated Mother’s Day celebration. We brought a picnic lunch and ate right there in the gardens before taking my mother to the Dale Chihuly exhibit, which was full of the glass sculptor’s colorful creations. We then went to the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, which houses a number of breathtaking flowers—it was the perfect spot for a group photo! Everything about that day was perfect: The azaleas were in full bloom, the walking trails we explored were gorgeous, and we girls got to spend an unforgettable afternoon together.” —Allie Crowley, Ho-Ho-Kus
Philadelphia, PA
“I have two children, Trevor and Paige, from a previous relationship and a 4-year-old son named Sean with my husband. Having a blended family is so rewarding but it has its fair share of challenges—like making sure each kid feels special and included. During a recent trip to Philadelphia, I took Sean to the Please Touch Museum, where he could interact with a number of exhibits. The older kids and I ran up the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, with the Rocky theme song playing in the background, of course! It was something we always wanted to do, and made for a hilarious moment. I’m so grateful for trips like this, and can’t wait for more!” —Marissa Murphy, Ramsey
