We’ve been
fortunate enough to travel extensively with our children over the years. My kids have passports filled with stamps to
prove it but I can remember a time when the mere thought of sightseeing with
kids in tow was more than just a little intimidating. Here are a few tips I’ve acquired over the
years that will help make the travel more enjoyable for both kids and parents
alike.
Ask About
Children’s Activities
When touring
places like abbeys and cathedrals, I’ve found they usually offer some fun
activities to keep kids busy. This might
include a scavenger hunt, a checklist or some other activity that when
completed the child can turn in and receive a prize. It’s worthwhile to inquire at the ticket counter
if they offer any of these activities or you can come up with some on your
own. They have always proven to be great
family fun and you can even learn a few things yourself along the way.
Book Private
Tours
Always try
to book private tours whenever possible.
Large group tours are tough on the little ones. They have a difficult time seeing and hearing
what the guide is saying and can lose interest easily. When you book a private tour you can tweak
the agenda to suit the age of your children and move at a pace that keeps the
young ones interested.
Purchase
Tickets in Advance
It’s a good
idea to not only purchase your tickets in advance but to book any Fast Track or
VIP packages that are offered. The cost
is a bit more but you’ll save a bundle in stress and aggravation.
Limit the
Walking
Little legs
can only walk so long. Most major cities
around the world offer some type of city bus tour. I think we’ve been on every one of these
types of tours in just about every European city. They are a great way to give the kids a rest
(grownups as well) and still learn some history or facts about the area. They also provide an easy, economical way to
get around the city.
Treats and
Rewards
A well-deserved
treat is always in order after hours spent touring the sites. Gelato, a toy or the promise of a dip in the
pool has always been a few of our favorites.
Staying in a home exchange property with a pool is great way to travel
with kids. IVHE.com has many luxury homes all around the world
and many are available with pools. Check out the amazing pool offered at this vacation home located just outside Paris or jump into the
pool located at this exclusive
property in Siena
after a full day of sightseeing in Italy.
What kid wouldn’t endure a 3 hour Vatican tour if he knew he’d be doing
a few cannonballs in that pool at the end of the day?
The most
important thing to remember is that planning ahead is key when traveling with
young children. Sadly, the days of “just
winging it” on holiday are long gone but if you put the time into a well
thought out and organized holiday you can enjoy a trouble free get-away and be
able to show your children what most kids only get to read about in history
books.
There have been some great blog entries recently about travel and children--great ideas!
ReplyDeleteThere have been some great blog entries recently about travel and children--great ideas!
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