Embracing Variety: The Pleasure of Walking Tours and Hikes
Traveling exposes us to different experiences and one of my favorites is indulging in a good walking tour. The joy of exploring new places on foot, soaking in the scenery, and experiencing the vibe of a city is an unmatched feeling. What’s more, my family and I also enjoy immersing ourselves in the serene beauty of nature through hiking. These ventures take us beyond the usual touristy attractions and allow us to truly appreciate the countryside.
However, we’ve discovered that group walking tours aren’t exactly our cup of tea. The lack of personal interaction with the guide and the group dynamics can make it challenging for children to fully enjoy the experience. Hence, we prefer private walking tours with local guides, where our kids have the freedom to interact, ask questions, and learn at their own pace. It’s a little more expensive but significantly enriches our experience.
Food: A Major Part of Our Travel
We are a family of foodies, and our travel itinerary often revolves around the local cuisine. We plan our day around our meals, finding interesting places for lunch and dinner, and then exploring nearby attractions.
Key to a Stress-free Trip: Appropriate Expectations and Flexibility
Traveling with children can be a delightful but stressful endeavor. The key to minimizing stress lies in setting appropriate expectations and maintaining flexibility. Many parents approach travel with kids, expecting it to be similar to their pre-kids travel experiences. However, traveling with children requires a different mindset.
It’s essential to accept that the pace will be slower and things may not go as planned, but that’s all part of the journey. Being patient, understanding, and remaining in the parenting role is crucial. Moreover, it’s vital to balance individual needs, recognize when a break is needed, and allow each other some personal time.
Instead of a rigid itinerary, we prefer having a list of potential activities, picking what to do based on the mood and weather. This flexibility reduces stress and makes our travels more enjoyable.
All Modes of Transportation Have Their Charm
Whether it’s an RV, plane, car, or train, each mode of transportation offers its unique experiences. Currently, we’re enjoying traveling in our converted Land Rover Defender camper. Having our own wheels allows us to explore off-the-beaten-path locations at our own pace.
Train travel, on the other hand, is a slow, leisurely experience. Watching the world go by from the train window is a kind of romance that leaves one feeling nostalgic. Local transportation in developing countries, even though sometimes crowded, offers an authentic cultural experience. So, each mode has its pros and cons, adding different flavors to our travel stories.
Favorite Travel Destinations
Choosing a favorite destination is as difficult as picking a favorite mode of transport. Every place has its unique charm. But if I had to pick, I’d say, as a family, we love Vietnam for its incredible food. Personally, Peru stands out for its rich variety. From the coast to the Andes, Machu Picchu to the desert, the incredible wildlife, and rich culture, Peru has something for everyone.
Traveling with kids is a different ball game altogether. However, the joy of experiencing new cultures, cuisines, and landscapes as a family makes it all worthwhile. With the right expectations, flexibility, and a spirit of adventure, family travels can indeed turn into cherished memories.
