Any parent will tell you that happy kids equates to happy adults, especially when holidaying, so planning the perfect vacation that caters to everyone’s needs is crucial before taking the plunge on your summer bookings.
Freezing weather, stressful shopping experiences and the annual untangling of the Christmas lights: is it any wonder that weary parents are turning their thoughts to relaxing summer holidays before the turkey is even cold? The surge in travel bookings can often precede taking down the Christmas tree, so it would be prudent not to leave your reservation too late or you may find that all the best places are gone.
Any parent will tell you that happy kids equates to happy adults, especially when holidaying, so planning the perfect vacation that caters to everyone’s needs is crucial before taking the plunge on your summer bookings.
Choosing your destination
It’s a good idea to get the whole family involved in the planning stage. Whether you envisage yourself sitting on a beach in Thailand, taking in the hustle and bustle of India, or relaxing by the pool in Florida, the options are limitless. Choosing and planning the vacation is, after all, part of the fun and something the whole family can happily do together. Differences of opinion and disputes can often be settled by drawing straws, should all else fail.
Beat the rush
The earlier you book, the better the choice of destination, accommodation and price. With villas like reunion vacation homes, you need to book early in order to secure the best place for your party. Heading to a resort that is known to be family-friendly is a great way to fit in plenty of relaxation time, as well as partaking in readymade activities to keep everyone engaged.
Consider a group holiday
Children are often happier in the company of other children, so consider holidaying with other families whose kids are of a similar age. There is nothing more aggravating than kids constantly begging you to play in the pool when you are happily sitting on your sun lounger sipping rosé — providing your little ones and their friends will undoubtedly leave you with more adult time.
Fail to plan, plan to fail
Before your holiday date comes up, take some time to consider ways to make your journey as smooth as possible. As an example, packing can often be a struggle: trying to fit everything your family needs into a tiny suitcase can prove a challenge for any parent, so take the time beforehand to learn to pack the Kondo way. You will be shocked at how much more you can fit in and how much better it all looks on the other end.
Another great tip is to book a refundable room at the airport. Should your flight be canceled or delayed, everyone will be rushing to secure the last rooms at the airport hotel… except you!
Traveling with younger children
Learn how to navigate holidays without upsetting your children’s routines too much, as the New York Times’ Parenting pages advise. Smaller children can be tricky to travel with, but careful planning can help avoid tired tantrums. For resort holidays, parents can often find that fitting younger children with a tracking device can help put their mind at rest and give little ones more freedom.
With the right amount of planning, all that will be left to do is for you and your loved ones to unplug, relax and enjoy.
