So many things changed once I became a mama, but travel is non-negotiable! I thrive on the thrill of the journey, the challenge of the adventure and discovery of the new. Needless to say, nothing makes me happier than to have my Skye along for the ride! Since traveling – and vacationing -- with a tot may contribute to seasonal stresses, here are a few anxiety-reducing, how-to tips from family expedition guru, Catherine Streeter. |
Travel Tips for Full-Family Fun
by Catherine Streeter
 Traveling with a brood has always offered up a generous dose of challenges.
Even the best-behaved tyke can turn into a demon above 30,000 feet, and choosing destinations that appeal to the whole family requires super-human skills (some knowledge of alchemy helps). Fortunately, we’ve come a long way from cross-country journeys in the family wagon and screams of “are we there yet?” Still, making good choices before you travel is the key to holiday happiness. So, when planning your next family getaway, consider some of the following suggestions for keeping Junior jovial and ensuring the whole family comes back more refreshed than stressed.
Tip #1: Strength in numbers
As any mom knows, kids of all ages are happiest when surrounded by other kids of a similar age -- which in turn makes things easier for you. If your pride and joy is an only child, she’ll welcome a playmate. If your troupe is larger, having other kids around will distract yours from sibling squabbles. So, consider resorts with onsite kids’ clubs -- a lifesaver for single parents or adults traveling with grandkids. At the very least, make sure hotels offer childcare options, and check staff-to-guest ratios. Another great option is a high-end tour operator; look for companies that offer family trips in various age categories so that youngsters are appropriately matched up and age-appropriate activities are on offer.
Tip #2: Divide your days
Plan to split your days into family time and kiddie hour(s). Set expectations for this and make arrangements ahead of time. The best tour operators will do this for you. On a biking trip, mornings tend to be family time, with everybody cycling together. In the afternoons, kids head off with guides on age-appropriate cultural outings or outdoor activities, while parents keep peddling or hit the spa. Everybody will benefit from the time apart, and you’ll all have stories to tell at dinner.
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