E.T.A team consist of 3 family members. Two adults and a child. 😀 Basically, we are family who travels together and eat out together. To us a family vacation can be a great time to bond and create new memories. Unfortunately, for us, it can also be a nerve-wracking experience if not planned properly. So here’s sharing a few tips that will help you organize a relaxing and memorable holiday.
Select a Stress-Free Destination
Before you select a destination, research the Internet to evaluate the current conditions.
Avoid places with:
• Civil unrest or riots
• Gang wars
• Forest fires, floods, hurricanes, or tornadoes
• Disease outbreaks or poor health and medical standards
• Pronounced prejudice against your nationality or religion
Research Prices and Perks
The cheapest vacation isn’t always the best. Carefully weigh all other considerations and extras:
• Are food and beverages part of the quoted price?
• Are airfare and other transportation costs (like airport shuttle service) included?
• Do you have to pay extra for tours and activities?
• Will there be nearby activities that interest everyone in the family?
Spend Some Time Planning
Print out maps of the area. Find out where all the attractions are located. Try to find accommodations close to most of the places you intend to visit.If you want to immerse yourself in local culture, consider renting a car and planning a few trips into smaller towns. Make sure that you allot sufficient time for everything. Don’t try to cram too many activities into any given time period.
Buy Travel Insurance Before You Go
Medical emergencies can spoil a vacation, especially if you do not have sufficient insurance to cover local treatment and emergency transport back home.
Make sure that your policy includes trip cancellation insurance and extra coverage for things such as hotel penalties.
Babysitting Services
If you would like to get away for an evening without the children, inquire whether babysitting services are offered by the hotel. When possible, ask other people what they think of the care. You can often find information with an Internet search like “NAME OF HOTEL babysitting reviews”.
Talk to the hotel staff and ask specific questions:
• Are the babysitting personnel trained in CPR and first aid?
• What are the prices? Are there discounts for extra children?
• What is the caregiver-to-child ratio? Will extra caregivers be added if necessary?
• Are there any organized activities? What are they?
While these tips will not ensure a perfect holiday, they will help to avoid many of the difficulties associated with a family vacation.