Mar 2001 Thinks

Archives - March 2001 Thinks

Traveling with Tots - Overseas Destination (Part One of Three)
by Britta Wilder Ross

You've decided to travel overseas with your tots - Hooray! But now down to the basics. The Three 'P's
of perfect travel are as follows: Plan, Passports and Packing. Organize these and you can't go wrong!

PLAN: This portion of the Three 'P's involves none other than the 5 W's-Who, What, When, Where and
Why. We'll also throw in 'How.'

WHO is going on this trip? The entire family? Some of the kids? Extended family? WHO is often
related to WHEN you will go and who's available to make the trip.

For most families, WHEN depends on summer vacations, holidays or when the kids aren't in school and when parents can take time off from jobs. Summer and holidays can also mean crowded destination spots and higher rates during peak seasons, so think carefully before committing. With pre-school kids WHEN becomes much more flexible so you might consider traveling before schedules become tight and off-season sites are more reasonable. On the other hand, older kids can fend for themselves much easier on big trips-it's really a question of what's best for you!

When selecting WHERE you want to go, be specific. If you'd like to go to Hawaii, where do you want to be? In the hub of Honolulu or on one of the less-traveled islands? Sometimes deciding where can be better answered when you ask yourself. WHAT and WHY. Why go to Holland? To see the tulips! What will we do in France? See Paris, Euro-Disney and the Eiffel Tower.

On the same subject of WHAT, consider also what it is your family especially likes doing - and doesn't like doing. Do you love watersports or does one of your children get seasick? Will you need assistance (strollers, backpacks) or will you be driving everywhere? Any special needs or are you the Swiss
Family Robinson? All of these questions and more, thoughtfully answered, will be your ultimate guide to making the best vacation selection.

Then comes money. HOW much is our budget? Peak seasons may charge peak rates for popular destinations. If money is no object, chances are good you will land the perfect spot. On the other hand, when watching your pennies, keep an eye out for family package vacations, which are tailored for groups and can often offer discounted rates. What's more, these packages are equipped with families in mind, geared towards children's activities, as well as the perk of having on-site licensed childcare, in the event you want some adult time on your own!

Popular family destinations overseas include Hawaii, Mexico, Europe and Australia. These locations offer plenty of sightseeing, outdoor activities, safe conditions and are basically family-friendly. Places to be wary of on a family vacation would be anywhere too exotic - rural areas lacking in necessities; areas prone to outbreak of disease; non-English speaking areas. The sites listed cater to the traveling American family while also boasting rich adventures you won't find at home.

The best bet when opting for a big trip overseas is to get in touch with a travel agent who specializes in family vacations. The agent can hook you up to the most economical air-fares (sometimes there are package deals and family rates you might not get if you were doing it on your own). Agents can also give advice on destination spots and help to select the one that's right for you and your family. If you're lucky enough to have lodging set up for you in advance (family or friends) that's great; if not, an agent can also
book rooms and hotels which cater to the traveling family. Bon Voyage!

Next Installment: PASSPORTS for children