Category Archives: Family Travel

Travel is a lot of fun when done with family. The best way to educate your kids is to simply travel with them. But family travel comes with its own challenges. For example money and crying babies and unresponsive kids.

Cities, Family Travel

Theme Parks in KL: A Guide to Fun and Adventure

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Theme Parks in KL, the bustling capital of Malaysia, is home to several exciting theme parks. From the thrilling rides at Sunway Lagoon to the family-friendly attractions at Berjaya Times Square Theme Park, there’s something for everyone in Kuala Lumper.

Don’t miss the chance to experience the fun and excitement of these top theme parks in KL!

Sunway Lagoon Tickets offer access to one of Malaysia’s most popular theme parks, featuring thrilling rides, water attractions, and animal encounters. With options for individuals, families, and groups, visitors can enjoy a full day of entertainment and adventure at this top destination in the Kuala Lumpur area.

Looking for a thrilling adventure in Kuala Lumpur? Look no further than the city’s incredible theme parks!

From roller coasters to water slides, these parks offer something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, there’s never a dull moment at these incredible parks.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the top theme parks in KL and help you plan your ultimate adventure.

Sunway Lagoon

Sunway Lagoon is one of the most popular theme parks in Kuala Lumpur and for good reason. This massive park spans over 80 acres and offers a variety of attractions for all ages.

The park features over 80 rides and attractions, including Malaysia’s first surf simulator, a giant water slide complex, and the world’s largest man-made sandy surf beach.

The park also has a wildlife park where you can get up close and personal with exotic animals like white tigers, pythons, and crocodiles.

Berjaya Times Square Theme Park

Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Berjaya Times Square Theme Park is an indoor park that’s perfect for a rainy day. The park features over 14 rides and attractions, including a roller coaster, Ferris wheel, and bumper cars.

One of the park’s highlights is the Galaxy Station, which is a four-story high theme park with rides that will thrill adrenaline junkies.

Escape Room Malaysia

Escape Room Malaysia is not your typical theme park. This unique attraction combines elements of a theme park, a puzzle game, and an escape room. Visitors are locked in a room and must solve puzzles and clues to escape before time runs out.

There are several themed rooms to choose from, including a zombie apocalypse room and a haunted house room. This park is perfect for those who enjoy a challenge and a good scare.

KidZania Kuala Lumpur

KidZania Kuala Lumpur is a unique theme park that’s designed for kids. The park features a mini-city where kids can role-play as adults and learn about different careers. Kids can try their hand at being a doctor, pilot, chef, or even a firefighter.

The park also has a mini indoor stadium where kids can play sports and a mini theater where they can watch live performances.

Genting Highlands Theme Park

Genting Highlands Theme Park is located just outside of Kuala Lumpur and is the perfect destination for thrill-seekers. The park features over 20 rides and attractions, including Malaysia’s fastest and longest cable car ride.

The park is divided into several themed areas, including Water Park, Snow World, and Video Games Park. The park also has several hotels and resorts, making it the perfect place to spend a weekend or longer.

Conclusion

Kuala Lumpur is home to some of the best theme parks in Southeast Asia. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure or a fun day out with the family, there’s something for everyone in these incredible parks. From roller coasters to water slides, and escape rooms to mini-cities, these parks offer endless opportunities for fun and excitement.

So why not plan your next adventure to one of these amazing theme parks in KL today?

Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Islands, Family Travel

Family Travel Guide for Waikiki Beach Hawaii

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Aloha and welcome to Waikiki Beach, the heart of Hawaii! This world-famous beach in Honolulu is known for its breathtaking sunsets, iconic Diamond Head crater, and endless possibilities for family fun.

Located on the southern shore of Oahu, Waikiki Beach is a world-famous stretch of golden sand that offers everything from world-class surfing to luxury resorts, family-friendly activities, and endless natural beauty.

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii and want to make the most of your time on Waikiki Hawaii Beach, here is a family travel guide to help you get started.

Let’s Visit Oahu, Hawaii

With miles of sandy shores and vibrant city life, Waikiki offers the perfect balance for an unforgettable family vacation. When it comes to beach destinations in the United States, few places can compare to the stunning beauty and unique culture of Hawaii.

And among Hawaii’s many incredible beaches, Waikiki stands out as a must-visit destination for families and travelers alike.

Tips for a Successful Family Vacation in Waikiki

  • Plan your visit during the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) to enjoy fewer crowds and more affordable accommodations
  • Use TheBus, Honolulu’s public transportation system, to navigate the city and save on rental car costs
  • Apply sunscreen regularly and stay hydrated, as the Hawaiian sun can be intense
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions, and practice responsible

Where to Stay

Waikiki is home to a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals to high-end resorts and luxury villas. Some of the top-rated hotels in the area include the Royal Hawaiian, Moana Surfrider, and Halekulani, all of which offer stunning ocean views, luxurious amenities, and easy access to the beach.

For families and travelers on a budget, there are plenty of affordable options as well. The Aqua Palms Waikiki and Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel are both popular choices, with comfortable rooms, great locations, and affordable rates.

Things To Do for Family Travelers

There’s no shortage of activities and attractions to keep you busy during your stay in Waikiki. Here are just a few of the top things to see and do:

Exploring Waikiki Beach

There’s no better way to start your family vacation than by hitting the beach. Waikiki Beach is a two-mile stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear water, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles.

For those interested in learning to surf, the gentle waves of Waikiki are ideal for beginners. Many surf schools offer group or private lessons to help you catch your first wave.

If you prefer something more low-key, consider renting paddleboards or snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world.

Discovering the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium

Located within walking distance of Waikiki Beach, the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium are perfect destinations for families with young children. The Honolulu Zoo, home to over 900 animals, offers an up-close experience with wildlife from around the world, including African elephants, orangutans, and native Hawaiian birds.

Nene, pictured above is a native Hawaiian bird, also called Hawaiian Goose

Just a mile away, the Waikiki Aquarium showcases fascinating marine life, such as colorful coral reefs, giant clams, and mesmerizing jellyfish. Both venues provide educational and entertaining experiences for kids and adults alike.

Hiking the Iconic Diamond Head

If you’re looking for a break from the beach, there are several hiking trails in the area that offer stunning views of the coastline and surrounding mountains.

For families seeking adventure, the Diamond Head State Monument is a must-visit. This iconic volcanic crater offers a moderately challenging hike that rewards climbers with panoramic views of Waikiki and the surrounding area.

The 1.6-mile round-trip hike is suitable for families with older children and takes about 1.5-2 hours to complete. Don’t forget to pack water, sunscreen, and a hat, as the trail can get hot during midday.

Immerse in Hawaiian Culture at the Polynesian Cultural Center

To truly experience Hawaii, a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center is essential. Located about an hour’s drive from Waikiki, this living museum showcases the cultures of Polynesia through interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and live performances.

Families can learn about traditional Hawaiian practices, such as lei-making, hula dancing, and fire-knife dancing while sampling authentic island cuisine at the Luau buffet.

Make sure to stay for the evening show, Ha: Breath of Life, which tells a captivating story of love, family, and tradition through song, dance, and special effects.

Luau

No trip to Hawaii is complete without experiencing a traditional Hawaiian luau, and there are several options in the Waikiki area. The Paradise Cove Luau and Royal Hawaiian Luau are both highly recommended, with authentic Hawaiian food, music, and dance performances.

Shop and Dine at the International Market Place

Waikiki is home to some of the best shopping in Hawaii, with a mix of high-end designer boutiques and local shops selling everything from souvenirs to handmade crafts. The International Market Place and Ala Moana Center are both must-visit destinations for shoppers.

Shopping enthusiasts will love the International Market Place, an open-air shopping center located in the heart of Waikiki. With over 90 stores and restaurants, this upscale complex offers something for everyone.

Parents can shop for souvenirs or designer brands, while kids will enjoy the interactive play area and delicious treats from local eateries. Don’t miss the nightly entertainment, featuring live music and hula performances.

Surfing

Waikiki is famous for its world-class surfing conditions, with gentle waves that are perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike. There are plenty of surf schools and rental shops in the area, so you can easily book a lesson or rent a board and hit the waves.

Snorkeling

The waters around Waikiki are home to a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. There are several snorkeling tours and rental companies in the area, making it easy to explore the underwater world.

Where to Eat

From traditional Hawaiian cuisine to international flavors and upscale dining, Waikiki offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Here are a few top picks:

Duke’s Waikiki

Named after legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku, this beachfront restaurant is a Waikiki institution. Known for its fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and live music, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking for a true Hawaiian dining experience.

Marukame Udon

If you’re looking for a quick and affordable meal, Marukame Udon is a popular spot for traditional Japanese udon noodles. The line can be long, but it’s worth the wait for the delicious and authentic flavors.

Roy’s Waikiki

For upscale dining with a Hawaiian twist, Roy’s Waikiki is a top choice. The menu features a fusion of Hawaiian and Asian flavors

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Trip Ideas, Bucket List, Family Travel, Top 10 List

Top 10 Best Disney World Attractions

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Let us face it! It has been our dream since childhood to visit Disney World at least once in our lifetime. Planning a trip to Walt Disney World puts you in good company. It is the flagship of Disney’s worldwide theme park empire and is, by far, the most popular theme park resort in the world.

Year after year, Disney World has been one the most visited vacation resort in the world, with an astounding number of attendants averaging over 50 million tourists annually. The figure speaks volumes about its out-of-proportion popularity.

Disney World at Nighttime

Though many people around the world want to visit this wonderful entertainment complex in the United States of America, very few, know the marvelous rides and attraction sites this place has to offer.

Long story short, going to Disney World will be an exercise in futility if you miss out on the following 10 top best attractions of the place. Mark them in your checklist and be sure to enjoy them right from the get-go.

Magic Kingdom Park

Magic Kingdom aka Cinderella’s Castle

It is a theme park inspired by a fairy tale castle of a movie made in 1950. It represents the classic story of Cinderella rising from being an orphan to a princess. T As the protocol goes, you will get a chance to be a princess or a knight at its very own salon.

Moreover, you can get to experience fine dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table, which is a once in a lifetime thing. But make sure you reserve a seat for yourself, or you might miss this opportunity.

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Disney Wedding Pavilion

A wedding is unarguably the most important day of an individual’s life. This is one reason why we leave no stone unturned to make it a memorable occurrence. But if there is any place in the world that truly deserves to host your dream wedding, it has to be none other than Disney Wedding Pavilion.

Disney Pavilion

Concerning the wedding ceremony, the Disney Wedding Pavilion is everything you can venture to imagine.

It is based in a dazzling setting, which will charm each one of the guests on your list with spectacular views and romantic archways. In addition to providing aesthetic pleasure, it serves as an ample picture-point for guests. Everything is designed in such a way that they make up for a great background for photography.

Disney’s Boardwalk

Fireworks seen from Disney World Boardwalk

Disney’s boardwalk occupies the area of roughly 90000 square feet. Here, you will witness an endless streak of shops, nightclubs, and restaurants. What could be better than shopping around and munching one of the most delicious foods you will ever have in your life?

Simply put, if you have an appetite for the typical nightlife of a metropolitan, the boardwalk is surely your cup of tea. This attraction is commonly referred to as a village on the water.

As you stroll along, your kids are quite likely to come across street performers. Talking about the most popular sites of this place, they are Atlantic Dance Hall and Jellyrolls.

Note: If you want to view the Disney World from a wheelchair user’s perspective, then read: 17 Reason Why I Love Walt Disney World.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Tree of Life in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

The park is a special treat for animal-lovers. Whether you are fond of African, Asian, or species that belong to other vast and varied parts of the world, you can watch them all buying a single ticket. The park is also home to several animals that are almost on the verge of extinction. Rest assured, the experience is bound to cast a spell on your mind.

Speaking of formalities, you can explore the animal kingdom from 9 AM to 5 PM. Therefore, be smart to manage your time, or else you will go end up regretting big time.

Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park

Blizzard Beach Water Park, Disney World

Are you one of those many people who are the victim of poor work-life balance? If yes, then you would be spending only a fraction of your time with the family, and even taking your kids to a local park might seem like an uphill task.

Attractions like Blizzard Beach Water Park allows you to splash into action and have fun with your family that you have been missing all these days.

Ranging from Summit Plummet to Runoff Rapids, it has tens of innovation water slides that will shock you. However, it would be a mistake to assume that the place is all about water. There are also numerous delicacies in Frostbite Freddy’s Frozen Freshments and Lottawatta Lodge. It is hands down one of the very famous attractions in Disney World.

The American Adventure

The whole point of going on a vacation is taking a much-needed break from hectic life. There is no harm in opting for a vacation spot that educates you and your children in a fun way. That is where Disney’s American Adventure swings into action.

The American Adventure at the Disney World

Once you step into this place, you will fall in love with American history, partly because America has a very proud history and partly because of the way this history is illustrated here.

From great depression to the deceleration of independence, many other historical landmarks are recalled during the projection. Those who have already been through this adventure will assure you that no one can walk off from the theatre without getting a deep sense of American history. Guess what, and you do not have to be time-bound for this show. So if you do not make it in time, you can always wait until the next round begins.

ESPN Wide World of Sport Complex

The ESPN Sports Complex is erected on a massive real estate. If you are into sports, this place will facilitate you to compete in nearly 60 top-tier games, taking the factor of age completely out of the equation.

Of course, not all of us are sports-enthusiasts. But if you are, you can choose to be a spectator and cheer for your team.

Awesome Planet

Our planet has been going through wear and tear since the dawn of history. However, in the last few decades, our ecosystem has collapsed like anything, and scientists say that the worse is yet to come. Provided unprecedented threats to our planet, it becomes even more important to visit this attraction.

The Awesome Planet film was made in partnership with Disney Conversation Fund to tell the story of our beloved planet and why it is important to take care of it. It calls upon the people to think and pay attention to global emergencies such as climate change and many others. Awesome Planet will do a world of good to you and your family in terms of igniting civic sense.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios at Disney World

If you have been a fan of Disney films, you cannot ask for anything better than Disney’s Hollywood Studios. As it turns out, there is a huge fan-following of Disney films because Hollywood tower remains the busiest place in the entire Disney world throughout the year.

Hollywood Studios owes much of its popularity to the recent openings, namely, Stars Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story.

Since the opening hours of this attraction keeps on fluctuating, staying on top of the time-management will be the key.

American Heritage Gallery

This list surely cannot come to a close without mentioning the name of the American Heritage Gallery. It showcases the heritage of America by displaying authentic artifacts along with some contemporary works as well. It is a major tourist attraction as it represents the richness of American culture.

Main Street, Disney World

Taking a few pictures here and there and getting to know more about the diversity of the American culture would be a great use of your time at Disney.

The Final Verdict

Undauntedly, every part of Disney World is gold. But if you lack time and other resources to explore all of it, then sticking to the places mentioned above will guarantee not only unlimited fun but also the best return of your investment at the same time.

Enjoy and have a blast!

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Cities, Family Travel

A Fun New Orleans Trip With The Family

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Family trips are fun, especially when your kids have never been to the intended weekend destination. My family always looks at these trips as an adventure, a learning experience, and a chance for quality time together.

Trip with family / The Art of Travel

This past weekends trip was no different when a family friend invited us to use his condo on St Philips Street in the historic city of New Orleans. The apartment is pretty much in the center of the French Quarters a block from famous Bourbon Street.

I learned something about Uber drivers, my kids fell in love with Cajun food, and we were able to spread some joy to passerby from our balcony.

I love historical areas that are old and rich in history. New Orleans has this and more leaving no doubt why there’re so many books, stories, movies and TV shows based on this area.

The first learning experience I will share is one that shocked my kids. Now my kids are teenagers, so they pick up on everything out of the ordinary and this trip they did not let me down.

Photo: The Art of Travel Partners

Teaching and learning

Imagine driving through small one-way alley-like streets, not well lit at 2 am. You are trying to find the place you are staying, and you see blankets on the sidewalks. People are moving around almost zombish, and then your youngest son says, “OMG mom is that guy is using the bathroom on the sidewalk.”

Well, yes he was and it was gross. But instead of being freaked out I took it as a conversational moment to talk to my kids about homeless people and why they think there were so social issues such as homelessness in this region.

Civics class at 2 am but it did spark some interesting conversation and made my kids think. These are the best teachable moments to me.

Photo: The Art of Travel Partners

Great Food

A few hours of sleep, and we were up and off to have breakfast in the Big Easy. We found a cafe not far from St Philips street called French Toast on Decatur Street. The name was not misleading, some of the best french toast I have ever had, and the restaurant staff was friendly. We checked in on Yelp, and they had a table waiting for us when we arrived.

From there we stopped by Belle’s Diner Nola also on Decatur St where we had a tasty Cajun Bloody Mary. One of the cool things about the Big Easy is you can take your drinks with you as you browse the street markets.

Bloody Mary Cocktail / The Art of Travel Partners

Beautiful Cemeteries

The cemeteries, also known in New Orleans as the “Cities of the Dead,” always amaze me. Some tombs and mausoleums are from the 1700s. Most of the people are buried in tombs above ground because New Orleans is basically a swamp.

Posing for photo / The Art of Travel

You can visit the “Voodoo Queen” herself, Marie Laveau which was a little on the expensive side to me for a $20 tour fee per person. If this is something you want to visit, then you will find her in the  St. Louis Cemetery No 1 that is closest to the French Quarters.

Photo: The Art of Travel Partners

If you are looking to save money skip the St. Louis Cemeteries and head over to the Lafayette Cemetery.

Lafayette Cemetery / The Art of Travel

Some Tips on Lafayette Cemetery

I prefer to visit the Lafayette Cemetery because you can enter for free and if you want a tour its tip based. One other note, if you decide to Uber around the French Quarters don’t tell the driver your destination if the Uber happens to call you before arrival.

I found out the hard way they will cancel the ride if they think they will not make much money off your trip.  Hint, hint, Uber drivers can’t see your intended destination until they pick you up.

French Quarters

Beautiful French Quarters / The Art of Travel Partners

Our condo for the weekend was better than any hotel, so I’ve saved the best for last. The building was built before 1800 and the owners did a great job of keeping it authentic with a few modern conveniences such as the updated bathroom and kitchenette.  It was a real breath of fresh air.

The place was excellent, historic but what it even more special was the ability to make the people walking below happy. Our friends had installed bubble machines.

Yes, bubbles. We had walked, shopped, dined, and did the tourist things but at the end of the day we ended up on the lacy balcony overlooking Royal and St Philips street.

We followed our friends advice and turned on the bubble machine. Everyone walking by stopped to take notice of the bubbles floating down the streets.

What was even better was there were weddings taking place where they had brass marching bands leading the bridal parties in true New Orleans style, and we got to add to that with our bubbles.

View from the balcony / The Art of Travel

People were videoing, taking selfies, cheering, and saying thank you for the simple glistening, soapy pockets of air floating down to them.

The evening turned out to be simple, it didn’t cost us anything, the kids put down their phones, and we had several hours of just quality family time spent laughing and talking.

This was a good experience for the whole family, one I will not soon forget. One that every family should experience.

Author Bio

Sheila Lynne – ever changing and growing, I am a mom, reader, writer, chef, wine connoisseur, craft beer drinker, adventurer, traveler, friend, mentor, and photographer.

The past twenty years I ran multi-million dollar businesses for management companies. I was highly successful because I was an analyzer, listener, and have learned interpersonal development with my teams and customers. These are skills that I will carry with me through my life endeavors starting with my new writing pursuits.

I am fortunate now that I get to do what I love and I have the natural ability to write about it as you will see with my writing, putting myself out there for the world one letter at a time.

The goal is for me to be published and at some point make money doing it. I want to live. I want to write. I want to share it with you. 

Trip Ideas, Family Travel, Health & Safety

Top 5 Tips on How to Plan a Babymoon

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Babymoons are that special trip that parents-to-be take before their bundle of joy arrives. A last chance to relax and restore before life gets exceptionally busy.

If you are planning for a babymoon, it’s an opportunity for you to enjoy time together as couples without the responsibilities of parenthood.

Babymoon Tips

There are several considerations to make when you plan your babymoon. Traveling while pregnant can create some challenges, but it’s usually very doable if you plan ahead of time. Here are five tips on planning a perfect babymoon.

1. Plan for traveling in your second trimester

Many moms-to-be find the first semester filled with nausea and overwhelming fatigue. Once you hit your second trimester, the morning sickness is usually gone, and you’re not so big that you’re uncomfortable.

This is why obstetricians typically recommend that you go between weeks 14 to 28. You’re not uncomfortable, your fatigue has lifted somewhat, and your mind is finally able to entertain the idea of going somewhere and enjoying yourself. The second trimester is the ideal time for travel during your pregnancy.

2. Plan the destination

Now that you know when you want to go, it’s time to pick where you want to go. Do you want exotic or laid-back? Casual or formal and pampered? Consider the climate of the place you’re heading and make sure that any amenities you need are easy to access.

Your babymoon should not necessarily be the time to travel somewhere to do a lot of sight-seeing or a highly-physical adventure. Cruises are not the best option either in case morning sickness is still an issue. Instead, you want this to be a time that you can do a lot of relaxing and resting.

3. Don’t do long flights or long roadtrips

Though you may be dreaming of a European trek as your final hurrah before the baby comes, consider all that such a trip entails. Aside from the comfort factor, sitting for extended periods of time can pose health hazards for even the healthiest of people.

Going abroad can cause jet lag, making an already fatigued mom-to-be even more exhausted. Try to keep your travel time to less than four hours.

Trying to run through an airport to catch a connecting flight is the last thing you want to be doing during your second trimester. If you choose a destination that requires flying, don’t forget to get an aisle seat, since you are going to need frequent bathroom breaks.

4. Score discounts by sharing what you’re doing

Many resorts and hotels offer discounts to travelers that are celebrating a special occasion. Let the person know that you’re booking with that you are on your babymoon and see what special offers they can provide. Sometimes you can get a room upgrade or a special room service package.

5. Keep medical support a priority

In addition to ensuring that your doctor has given you the green light to travel, you also want to make sure the area you’re traveling to has good medical care nearby.

Usually, the second trimester is pretty uneventful, but you don’t want to find yourself in an emergency situation with no medical help nearby. Keep your doctor’s contact info on a card with you at all times, as well as your insurance details.

If you keep these important guidelines in mind, you will find that you can plan a babymoon that will be filled with happy memories to hold on to after the baby arrives.

Author Bio

Richard Burrowes, is the Senior Director of Operations at Rose Hall Developments Ltd. His career foundations began in Vancouver, Canada where he studied hotel management and obtained a Bachelor of Commerce while working in AAA 4 and 5 Diamond hotel properties.

Richard’s journey continued when he returned to his birthplace, Jamaica, and began a career in the hospitality industry. This experience has allowed him to manage first class resorts and people in Jamaica, St. Lucia, and the Bahamas. Today, he is fortunate to be a part of the Rose Hall Developments team, a diverse and historically rich company.

Family Travel, International Travel

Overseas Family Travel: The Good, Bad & How To Prepare

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Before getting married, you and your partner shared a passion for traveling. In one of your conversations back then, you imagined going to places you haven’t visited, future kids in tow.

But now that you have finally settled down and actually have children of your own, you can hardly imagine traveling overseas with the whole gang. Even just a trip to the local mall entails a massive investment of time and effort, such that you have a hard time picturing yourself dealing with the usual hassles involved in traveling abroad, like fulfilling USA visa requirements.

Indeed, parenthood has a way of changing your perspective on the different aspects of life. But that does not mean that you should deprive yourself and your loved ones of the benefits of traveling abroad.

The Good

There are plenty of reasons why you should travel with your kids.

For one, you can learn a great deal about different cultures filtered through your kids’ eyes. Unlike adults, children have yet to acquire prejudices, and this enables them to be genuinely curious about new things. At the same time, traveling to foreign places gives parents the opportunity to teach their children about respecting differences.

Children can fully immerse themselves in an experience — something that adults need to remember to practice. Of course, you have to make the necessary preparations when traveling overseas. However, do not forget the reason why you are visiting new places.

Perhaps when you were younger and single, you wanted to tick off the many places on your bucket list, but now that you have children of your own you have to take things down a few notches. Although you may visit fewer places, you can savor the delights that each place offers without rushing.

Traveling overseas can also help each member of the family discover something new about themselves. Kids, for instance, have an innate curiosity that can be further honed through new experiences. Parents, on the other hand, can discover new skills in the face of unexpected circumstances.

But if there is one good reason why you should travel overseas with the whole gang, it would be the fact that traveling together reinforces the bond you have with your family.

 

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How To Fix The Bad

True, you may have to add a few more tasks to your to-do list before you can travel with your whole family. But that does not mean you should entirely avoid traveling with your family.

Here are some of the issues you may encounter, as well as suggested solutions.

Your kids won’t remember anything from the trip

Many parents try to hold off traveling with their kids until they are a little older. They say that traveling with kids at a young age will only lead to a waste of money because the young ones will hardly remember anything about the trip.

True, your kids may not memorize each of the places that you visit. But if you focus on immersing the whole family in the experience — focusing on the journey and not on the destination — you will be surprised at how your young ones remember your travels a few years later on.

It’s difficult

Another reason why many parents avoid traveling with kids is because they believe it is difficult.

While traveling with kids overseas is no walk in the park, it does not need to be difficult. Often, changing the way you travel can make things easier for everyone.

You have to accept the fact that you cannot do the things you once did with your spouse during your travels. That may mean skipping the nightlife entirely. Also, you may need to plan your trips more carefully instead of simply winging things.

My child is still a baby

Traveling with babies poses a few unique challenges that you won’t encounter once your child is a little older.

But there are a few advantages that you can enjoy when you travel with a baby instead of a toddler. For one, babies sleep a lot and require little beyond milk, sleep, and diaper changes. Plus, you do not have to worry about your baby running around unsupervised. Also, you and your spouse can take advantage of fast lanes in airports.

Kids and airplanes don’t mix

While it cannot be denied that there are children who do not behave well onboard airplanes, you should not let that fear hold you back.

The key here is to teach your children how to behave properly inside the plane. It also helps if you make the necessary arrangements to ensure that they are entertained. Finally, consider booking direct flights whenever possible.

It will cost a small fortune

Traveling with the whole family will definitely be more expensive compared to traveling with just your partner.

However, there are plenty of ways that you can reduce travel expenses. For instance, if you travel with your baby, you can enjoy discounts and freebies. You may also look for family deals on accommodations and meals.

You have to pack a lot of stuff

Families traveling together may need to bring more luggage and big items like strollers. But there are plenty of ways to accommodate for more luggage. 

For one, you can opt to rent a car instead of taking public transportation. You can also rent a place that has a laundry unit which can help minimize the number of clothes that you need to bring. Instead of bringing your own stroller, consider renting one.

Don’t let your fears deprive you and your family of new experiences. Remember, kids grow up fast. Soon, you will have a difficult time enticing them to join you in your travels.

Author’s Bio

Bevan Berning is an Immigration professional and owner of Pathway Visas, an Immigration Agency dealing mostly with skilled immigration to Canada and Australia. Bevan’s enthusiasm for the industry has kept him in the Immigration field for the past seven years. Bevan is South African by birth and has been residing in Dubai for the past eight years.

 

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Trip Ideas, Family Travel, International Travel

8 Destination Ideas For A New Year Vacation With Kids

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The week after Christmas is the perfect time for a family trip. Kids are off from school, and you can have a very nice weekend away together over the New Year. Here are some of the best family-friendly destinations for a New Years vacation.

London, England

If you want to have some fun, head towards Dickens World Amusement Park in the capital of Great Britain. This “Winter Wonderland” has everything you wish for in a family weekend: music, dance, rides, boat rides, party poppers, and other exciting attractions.

The indoor snowfall, to the sound of Big Ben’s chimes at midnight, is a performance you will not soon forget. Plus, the fireworks display at Big Ben is a must-see event in London. And for New Year gifts for your kids, visit Hamleys, the largest toy store in the world.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai by jimmyweee CC BY 2.0

Dubai has tropical weather all-year-round, with temperatures of 25°C all winter long. In addition to the lovely weather, theme parks abound in the capital of the United Arab Emirates. In 2016, four new parks opened their doors to visitors from all over the world.

The four parks are IMG Worlds of Adventure, Motiongate, Legoland and Bollywood Dubai. Aside from lounging by the pool and wandering on the beach, you can also wear out your kids on new roller coasters, water rides, and film-themed attractions, like Shrek and Kung Fu Panda.

Coffs Coast, New South Wales

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Among New Year destinations for kids, Coffs Coast has some of the best attractions to offer your little ones. The New Year Carnival, magnificent fireworks, ample food and loads of exciting activities for children of all ages make it a very popular family destination. Your kids will love to feed and pet the dolphins at the Pet Porpoise Pool.

Other activities include go-carting, ice skating, bowling, and horse riding. Also, Butterfly House and Zip Circus are great photo locations, and Jungle Bungle is an indoor play area just for toddlers. Come to Coffs Coast for exciting holidays and a unique experience!

Sentosa Island, Singapore

Sentosa Island in Singapore celebrates the New Year with fantastic colorful pyrotechnic displays and a most vivid dance party. Songs of the Sea is a one-of-a-kind performance of fireworks, waterworks, and light. Also, the Underwater World is sure to make your kids excited with electric eels, turtles, pink dolphins and a huge variety of fish.

Combine your trip to Sentosa with a tour around Singapore, and you’ll have yourself a wonderful family vacation!

Related: Top 9 Destinations to Spend New Year in the USA

Yellowstone National Park, California

For a family holiday vacation in the United States of America, we recommend visiting one, or several, of the country’s national parks. Yellowstone is one of the most fascinating. Plus, it is also one of the best places to camp in Wyoming, as well as in the entire United States.

The park’s three hundred geysers will make people of all ages excited! The most famous of them, Old Faithful, erupts seventeen times a day, so you can’t miss it. Also, the Junior Ranger program for kids (Ages 4+) is an excellent opportunity to explore the park together.

Kerala, India

Kerala is one of the most popular travel destinations in India. It has everything you need for a great winter vacation: a tropical climate, sandy beaches, lakes, waterfalls, mountain ranges, palaces and ancient landmarks.

In 2012, Kerala was named one of the ten paradises of the world. Tours to the region usually include visiting tea farms, wildlife sanctuaries, and cruises along backwaters. A family visit to the oldest European settlement in India will also be great fun!

Costa Rica

Costa Rica regularly tops the list of the happiest countries in the world. It offers a rich variety of wildlife adventures and activities for everyone in your family. Zip-lining and river-rafting will be an exciting experience.

However, if you want to relax, you can take a bath in one of the natural hot springs on the volcano slopes. At the same time, your kids can have fun observing monkeys, macaws, poison-arrow frogs and other strange miniature beasts. If a vacation on an island is your idea of a perfect family holiday, head to Costa Rica, and you won’t regret your decision!

Killington, Vermont

Killington North ridge BY Mark Klapper CC BY 2.5

If you don’t dream of a winter vacation in the tropics but prefer to ski, then you should choose one of the many ski resorts in the United States. If you are planning a family vacation, pick a resort where your kids will have an opportunity to learn how to ski too.

For example, Killington in Vermont provides instruction for children. It also offers a variety of cozy cabins for New Year celebrations, with interesting board games and marshmallow toasting.

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Winter Travel, Cultures & Customs, Family Travel, International Travel, Top 10 List

10 Destination Ideas for a Christmas Vacation in Europe

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Europe is a popular travel destination and has a lot to offer.

However, if you are already fed up with the crowds in big European tourist centers, such as Paris, Berlin, Rome, Venice or Amsterdam, try going there in winter for a change, during the low season. Or just choose less popular, but still magnificent cities of

Or just choose less popular, but still magnificent cities of Central, Eastern and Northern Europe. In fact, Christmas is a great time to try something new, don’t you think? Here are ten less famous European destinations, which become just magical during the Christmas time.

Prague, Czech Republic

If you are not afraid of Prague’s chilly winters, you have a great chance to enjoy its famous Christmas markets, concerts, castles and underground restaurants. Even the most jaded travelers won’t be able to resist the charms of the city.

Prague is famous for its magnificent gothic architecture and unique folkloric traditions. You’ll also be glad to know that the prices in the capital of Czech Republic are very reasonable. So if you are a traveler on a budget, you shouldn’t be afraid to spend too much in this medieval city.

Innsbruck, Austria

While Innsbruck is undeservedly avoided by travelers during the summer season, in winter, this town on the Inn River becomes crowded with skiers and other winter sports lovers. Innsbruck is crowned with the Austrian Alps, offers numerous ski resorts, winter attractions and all-inclusive packages for the best Christmas vacation in the Old World.

Vienna, Austria

In Vienna, you’ll have a delightful old-fashioned Christmas, with the smell of mulled wine and hot chocolate. There will be magnificent holiday decorations on imperial architecture, ice skating rinks, and outdoor Christmas markets.

Don’t miss the Vienna Boy’s Choir performance. Or visit one the world’s most famous Viennese Christmas Balls. The capital of Austria really gives you an opportunity to make yourself feel like a 19th-century aristocrat, waltzing to the famous works of Johan Straus in a real imperial ballroom.

Budapest, Hungary

Couples skating hand-in-hand, families having fun, clouds of breath in the frosty air, you won’t find a more picture-perfect Christmas holiday anywhere other thanBudapest. The capital of Hungary boasts an enormous outdoor skating rink in the picturesque park Városligeti Műjégpálya.

And if you get cold, the numerous thermal baths of Budapest are at your service!

The city is also number one in the best affordable destinations in Europe list. This is another compelling reason to visit this beautiful city.

 

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Valkenburg, Netherlands

Christmas Shop in Amsterdam near the Flower Market By Tobias Niepel CC BY 2.0

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

However, if you are looking for new impressions and one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts, Valkenburg is a place for you.

The city is home to the oldest and the largest subterranean Christmas market in Europe. It is located in a labyrinth of underground caves. Underneath the town, you will find sculptures, an 18th-century chapel, mural drawings of Roman times and even Santa himself. The market works from mid-November until just before Christmas. During these weeks, the whole town transforms into a glittering winter wonderland.

Riga, Latvia

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The popular Riga Christmas market in the Town Hall Square offers not just souvenirs, Christmas gifts, and locally crafted items, but also numerous interesting events for both children and adults.

In the heart of Latvia’s capital, you will find a carousel of wooden figures, riding ponies, and horse-drawn carriages. Children will also enjoy the animal corner, with live sheep and rabbits, and the cat house with habitats of local animal shelter. Of course, you shouldn’t miss an organ concert in the famous Riga Cathedral (Rīgas Doms), as it is a truly fabulous performance!

Tallinn, Estonia

The capital of Estonia is known for its Christmas spirit and the medieval Old Town, whuch is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The world’s first Christmas tree was set up in Tallinn in 1441. Nowadays, on Town Hall Square, you will find not only the famous tree but also numerous little huts selling their goods, handcrafters at work, snow sculptures, national foods and drinks and a mini-zoo.

Copenhagen, Denmark

For a fairytale European Christmas, you can’t choose a destination more magical than the hometown of Hans Christian Andersen.

Of course, you can visit the famous and always crowded monument of the Little Mermaid.

But forget about it for the rest of Christmas vacation and just enjoy your time in the capital of Denmark. Enjoy the fairy streets and houses of old Copenhagen. Enjoy the warm, cozy cafes with big windows and flurrying snow outside. 

And in the heart of the city, there is a Tivoli amusement park, which transforms into a really magical place around Christmas, with illuminations warming the heart and hot mulled wine warming the body.

Lapland, Finland

What is a Christmas without Santa? And where to look for Santa, if not at his house? You will probably be surprised to find that there is a place in the world where Santa Claus lives.

It is a small town of Rovaniemi in Finland, the official hometown of Santa. It is a wonderful place, and not only for children. For the new experience, you can choose to sleep in an igloo hotel or try fly fishing. If your budget is not limited, you can even go on a husky safari. A 2-hour ride will cost you around 150 euro, but it is definitely worth it. At the same time, your children can make cookies with Mrs. Claus or enroll in Elf School. Rovaniemi is a perfect destination for family Christmas vacation!

Reykjavik, Iceland

Although Reykjavik may be too cold and dark in winter, it is still worth visiting during Christmas time. The capital of Iceland offers its winter visitors not just the Yule Town Christmas market, filled with holiday decorations, treats, and gifts, but also unique holiday traditions, such as the 13 Yuletide Lads. And, of course, it’s your chance to see the northern lights, a marvelous natural phenomenon which you will not soon forget.

 

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Budget Travel, Solo Travel, Family Travel, Student Travel, International Travel, Travel FAQ, Travel Visa

What are Your Biggest Travel Problems and Questions?

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This is a special and unique post that we will be a LIVE thread for answering your biggest travel problems and questions. Please comment your travel related questions here and we’ll answer them in the comments below.

That said, we have compiled a list of most commonly asked travel questions (around travel visa, safety, hacks and tips, miles, etc.). Please read our massive Travel FAQ page for answers to many of your Common Travel Questions.

Your Biggest Travel Problems & Questions

The Art of Travel is a community for hardcore travelers. We are a group of everyday folks who love to travel and experience the freedom that comes from traveling. However, travel (Internation Travel in particular) is a time and money consuming luxury that most of us can’t afford.

Sure we talk about and share our tips on Saving Money for Travel and Budget Travel but when you have three kids and a minimum wage job, none of the travel hacks quite work for everyone. It gets tricky.

If you have money but less time, we have plenty of travel hacks for you.

If you have plenty of time and little money, well, congratulations, we have you covered as well.

But what to do when you so desperately want to travel but don’t have either money or time. You work very hard to provide for yourself or your family and after paying all the bills and debts, you are left with pretty much nothing except some gas money for carpooling with your friends on a highly crowded weekend.

We want to address these and similar questions and would like to hear from you. What do you struggle with most when it comes to travel? What questions do you need to be answered? What are your biggest travel problems and questions?

Comment below and I will address each one of them in separate blog posts. I’ll do my best to be as thorough and detailed as possible.

We want to know you and we want to help you!

Tell us your travel problems

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