Seizing the moment
Taking time out from stress at work, school and the daily mundane routines that take a toll on the family's well-being is important. Traveling not only improves your mental health, but it can help the whole family feel calm. Exploring new places releases stress that you have been holding on to and helps you feel alive. Encouraging children to try new things enhances confidence, while learning new skills helps them trust in their own abilities. It's been proven that we value experiences more than material possessions.
Organize in advance
If you want a smooth stress-free vacation, I 100 % recommend planning early. Get the kids involved when brainstorming child-friendly attractions and tours. From amusement parks, to adventure tourism, including museums and water park activities , there is something for all kids' dreams to become reality.
To receive the best discounts, investigate popular activities on the internet, many companies have up to 20% when booking online. Making reservations also avoids long waiting times and avoids disappointed little faces.
When searching for a destination, look at what works for your kids' ages and interests. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION is an important part of planning a family vacation that will entertain everyone.
Start the relaxation process before you leave
You can do this by not being hard on yourself. Making sure all your goals for the vacation are feasible.
Things to consider for your accommodation : is it easy walking to the park, beach etc.? Are there activities on the property for children ? Check Google Earth to see photos of the surrounding area to evaluate the safety of walking around the neighborhood where your hotel is located.
Schedule a rest, as well as booking activities at beaches, snorkeling trips, museums, e-bike adventures, hiking in the wilderness and private island tours. Allow some alone time for yourself and try not to get exhausted before you even leave.
Look for half-day tours, so your kids get maximum out of the tours you book. It's tiring enough for adults, even harder with shorter legs. It's all fun in the sun until their batteries run out.
Sailing the high seas
When planning boat activities, 2 hours is perfect for a snorkeling trip. The ideal trip would visit 3 reefs and have short travel times for a maximum swimming experience. The boat "Cubana" is fantastic for families, large enough to move around. It has a glass bottom viewing area 1 mtr x 0.7, so you can watch Nemo and friends without getting wet. The staff are amazing at assisting those who are learning a new skill. All equipment and ice-cold refreshments are included in the price.
6 Tips to safeguard your kids this vacation
Kids are unpredictable, especially in a new exciting environment. Here are six essential tips to keep your kids safe this vacation.
Number 1: When getting the kids ready for an activity, dress them in clothing that is bright and colorful, so they will be easy to see while out and about in the crowds.
Number 2: Take a photo before leaving, so if you get separated, the recent photo with the clothing they are wearing will assist efforts to find them quickly.
Number 3: Talk to your kids about what to do if they get lost. Communication is the key. Make sure your kids know who to talk to in an emergency, like a police officer, hotel manager, security officer or an employee and who they should avoid.
Number 4: The sun has definitely increased since we were kids. UV light is most intense from 11am–4pm, especially if you are traveling near the equator or at high altitudes. Any activity near water or snow also reflects light, increasing chances of sunburn. 100% recommend kids' sun-shirts. They offer UPF 50+ UV sun protection for wet or dry conditions. They work by absorbing and blocking harmful radiation and are the most effective way to protect yourself from sun damage and skin cancer. Hats and sunglasses are also helpful, and arm yourself with marine-friendly biodegradable sunscreen spf 50+. Apply 30 minutes before water activities for full effectiveness.
Number 5: When on tours and excursions, make sure they are listening to safety instructions from the tour guide. You can make a fun quiz game to ensure they have heard and understood the guidelines.
Number 6: Putting snacks in your pack is super important. Packing high in fiber foods like grain crackers, dry and fresh fruit and trail mix snacks, will definitely help your child feel fuller for longer, avoiding hunger tantrums. Too much sugar causes hyperactivity and then the child crashes, and we all know how that goes.
The whole family is so much happier when they know a vacation is booked. So, what are you waiting for??
By Santana Warner