Joanna James
Regardless of the ages of your children, travelling with the younger members of the family can be a daunting prospect for most parents. Whether you are holidaying with an infant or a brood of diverse ages, here are some tips to enjoy a seamless vacation with your family.
One decision that has a big impact on the success or failure of a family trip is the destination of the holiday. Involve every member of the family when choosing a destination and make sure the location you choose is a big hit with everyone for all the right reasons.
It is easy to get stressed and let tension dictate your mood during long flights and when navigating other tricky situations with children. Relax and do not micromanage or attempt to control everything. Sit back and go with the flow and your kids will be wiser for it.
Not all tourist hotels are created equal and it is crucial to find a rest that not only provides creature comforts but plenty of activities for the young ones. Whether you select a property belonging to the Park Hotel Group or any other hotel chain, make sure the venue is also located near Asia tourist attractions as spending less time on the road also makes for a less stressful holiday.
While it is tempting to throw everything in your home into a suitcase, resist the urge to overpack. Lugging around several pieces of luggage can be tiresome and ultimately an unnecessary burden. Take only what you need as whatever is missing can be purchased along the way.
If you are travelling with toddlers or children in pre-school, it is important to set aside an hour in your travel itinerary to allow the young ones to rest and recharge. Schedule a naptime that works each day and make sure the kids also go to bed early at night.
Kids will miss and crave their favourite snacks and toys when away from home so prepare in advance by carrying a few choice treats and playthings that are bound to keep them satisfied.
When it comes to holiday activities, make sure that the excursions and adventures you sign up for can be enjoyed as a group. Banana boating, dolphin watching cruises, trips to nature reserves and amusement parks or splash centres are some activities you could include.
Use the hotel's kid's club hours or babysitting services to enjoy a meal with your spouse. Spending some alone time away from the kids, even if it is for an hour or two, will go a long way in restoring your sense of balance.
Do not pack your sightseeing itinerary with too many highlights. Kids will grow tired and cranky as the day wears on so choose two or three attractions at most for a day plan.
Wine and dine in local restaurants and introduce your kids to the culinary treats that are unique to that destination. It will be less expensive and a valuable learning experience.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
