Well as they say, post you become a mother - your dreams, passions and hobbies take a long pause. Off course they do but they don’t die unless you plan to kill them! Travel bug had bitten me since I was a child. The annual family vacations with family or later on small trips with friends always gave a sense of discovering something fresh – then be it place, people, food or different cultures.
And many years post that, I am glad I still continue to do so despite a demanding job! Just putting down some of the tips which may help my fellow mom travelers
1. Start early – Earlier the better: My first trip post having my son was when he was just 3months young. I decided to zero on a place which I am well versed with and know every nook and corner in case of an any medical emergency. Hence, I zeroed down on my native place situated on the coastline of Maharashtra. This only helps the child to come out of the comfort zone of 4 walls and makes his/her immunity system adapt to the environment. Make sure you consult the doctor prior to first trip.
2. Pull your family along: I am just not a ‘Solo traveler’ category, I like to have my family/ friends with me on every trip. If you are travelling with your child having your natural extended ones is a boon. The child will not only get acquainted with your other family members but you also get some ‘Me’ time.
3. Plan a theme based trip: As your child grows and develops understanding of nature and surroundings (about 2-3.5yrs) you can have theme based holidays viz: jungle safari, beachside, amusement parks etc.
4. Club Weekends with bank holidays: Make the most of the joint holidays, this is a major problem solver when it comes to taking leaves from office or taking an off from school. (I have done 3N Phuket, 4N Maldives and ‘N’ number of domestic trips without missing office)
5. Make the most of your official trip: If you are in a job which requires you travelling around the world, it definitely works to your advantage. You can extend a day or so post your conference/ meetings or plan such that you get weekend to explore a new city (P.S. : You need to have a co-operative boss for that :D)
6. Tag your college gang along with kids: How about reliving the college days back again? Without really staying away from your kids! Why not tag you friends on a ‘Mom n Kids’ or “Pa and kids” trip. While you rejuvenate with your old memories with your pals, kids get to make new friends.
All this can happen smoothly if you have an understanding life partner and an equally important parental/ in-laws support !
Happy & Safe Travelling!