I love the hashtag #takeyourkidseverywhere. I think it’s because in our travels, we are often met with the reaction “you took your kids where!?!” Even though our travel looks largely whimsical and spontaneous - just like our matching tattoos - it is actually well planned and evaluated. What is the insider scoop on how we plan? Well first we start with where not to go.
Vacation planning starts with a wish list, of course. But that wish list can be tweaked or reordered based on research. We literally have a bucket list that we rearrange based on several factors. One - no joke - is civil unrest. Yep. We read the news to see which countries are going through protests, regime changes, spats with surrounding counties, spats with our government. There are three counties in particular that have been on our list for a long time - but until they are NOT in the news, to the bottom of the list they go. We will get there one day, but not today. Second is disease. Outbreak of Eboli? Bottom of the list. Malaria infested? Not now. Measles outbreak? Well, we live here, so I guess we cannot avoid that. But, keep in mind most pockets of disease are either limited in area, seasonal, or preventable with precautions and vaccinations. We look at the specific area we want to visit and the season, review the WHO guidelines and work closely with our doctor to keep vaccinations updated. And we always travel with emergency medicine that should hold us over should an unfortunate illness arise (#learnedthehardway). Don’t go by scare-tactic-drama rags, check reliable sources and use common sense. Monsoon season is a no-go. Yes, weather can be unpredictable. But repetitive natural disasters are usually contained in a season. Sure, our weekend plans have been blown away by a hurricane. Yep, we did pick a rainy season to head to the jungle. But we also visited The Southern Hemisphere in their summer (with an unfortunate unexpected layover in Amsterdam with only shorts in tow) and lucked into Galapagos during a full moon, high tide, long sunshine week. Check and play the cusps of the season; reorder your bucket list based on weather; and if you are unsure, buy the Trip insurance. Oh, and bring a rain poncho and a credit card. Physical limitations are always considered. Sure, we like to blame it on the kids, but as we age, we are limited by our ailments more than their limitations. Either way, think about how much physical activity is involved and what level your family can endure. But don’t just mark off an amazing trip because of some discomfort - a little discomfort can really be a bonding experience. Further, consider wether it is a scratch off or rearrange situation. Training for vacation can extend the fun to months before and after the actual trip. Plan to ride bikes for every day for two months before you go. Take those swim lessons or get dive certified ahead of time. Walk, run, climb to get in shape. Daily preparation at home can open up a whole world of activities abroad. Robbery, murder, and Mayhem are always something to consider. Well, yes, I suppose anything can happen anywhere. But will it probably happen to you? Read and consider the specific risk factors of where you will be. If our home town is in the news - it’s never good news. There are areas of town and times of day that are just not advisable - for tourists or for natives. Yet, I consider our town to be very tourist friendly. Most tourist destinations are the same. Before you go, study tips to avoid risks in that town. Ask the concierge for suggestions on where to go and how to get there safely. Trust your gut (and risk indicators) on when it’s time to turn around and head back to the main strip. Travel books /sites like Rick Steves and Lonely Planet
usually have a safety section. Read those before you go. We also rely heavily on TripAdvisor comments and recommendations. Different is not necessarily dangerous. Areas that rely on tourism for their economic well-being want you to have a safe, enjoyable time. Heed the advise of locals and those that have gone before. We love to enjoy unusual, exotic experience. But safety is always top of mind. With a little research and planning, you can look like that wild travel family while knowing your adventure road will lead you home again. And your bed will feel soooo good when you get there.