You’re taking the family abroad soon? This is the first time? How exciting! To keep everyone relaxed and happy, there are a few things you can do before you depart on your epic family adventure. To give you some peace of mind, prepare your children for different cultures and plan ahead for unforeseeable circumstances.
Purchasing travel insurance for you and your entire family when you start booking your vacation will cover your entire clan from the time you leave your home, until you return. Flat tire on the way to the airport made you miss your flight – you’re covered! You arrive on time, but your luggage doesn’t – you’re covered! You get sick in a destination and need to see a doctor – you’re covered! These are just a few reasons why you should consider buying it.
Important things to know about insurance: Not all plans are the same! Coverages vary widely and there are important purchase timelines to consider. Discuss your needs with your travel advisor to see which option is the best fit for you and your family.
When planning your trip, include the entire family. Have the kids pick some of the activities, research hotels and be part of the planning process. Especially when traveling with small children, allow enough free time for meltdowns, activity breaks and to recover from jet lag. Your travel advisor can help you plan out daily activities, utilize private guides, and add special VIP access afterhours, fun surprises like painting classes with a local artist, treasure hunts and so much more.
Choose hotels that are happy to welcome all ages. Have you seen your 5-year-old’s face when you get to a hotel that has kid-sized slippers, robes and special treats waiting in the room? Special kids’ menus, age-friendly activities and programs, and public areas that allow kids to be themselves not only put them at ease, but allow parents to relax and enjoy as well.
All-inclusive beach resorts are very popular with smaller kids. The kids clubs keep them entertained and happy and offer age-appropriate activities for them. Parents can enjoy some one-on-one time and know their little ones are well taken care of. All-inclusives also mean your pre-teens don’t have to constantly ask you to sign receipts for juice or soda, or go to the shop to get a snack. They can indulge (within limits, of course) and be empowered to make their own decisions. Cruises are ideal for large families or groups of friends traveling together.
If it’s the first time flying with the kids, take the time to explain to them what it will be like. Talk about airplane noise, crowds, sitting still for a long time and pressure build-up in their ears. Think back to your first time flying and all the things that were exciting but a bit scary. Let them ask questions, pack wholesome snacks and make sure everyone is well rested and stretched before your long flight. Having access to an airport lounge will be very beneficial if you are traveling with kids. Free food, a secure area to move around in, clean facilities, air conditioning and a less busy environment are worth any extra money it might cost!
There is still space left for a summer vacation. Wave Season offers with the cruise lines are mostly valid until the end of March. Save the date for our upcoming Travel Night here in Flagstaff on April 30. Our office will be hosting a special evening with African Travel, Insight Vacations, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, U by Uniworld, Breandan Vacations and Trafalgar Tours. We will have some great booking specials available and highlight some brand new family geared itineraries for the summer and winter. Reach out to Avenues of the World Travel to get on the attendee list.
Regardless of where you’re heading, everyone’s safety and comfort is the No. 1 concern. Our travel advisors are happy to answer any questions and discuss your preferences for different destinations and travel styles. We take the stress and anxiety out of planning, so you can lean back worry-free and make memories with your loved ones. FBN
By Daniela Harrison
Daniela Harrison is a Travel Advisor and Director of Marketing at Avenues of the World Travel in Flagstaff, AZ. For questions, please reach out via 928-556-0853 or Daniela@avenuesoftheworld.com.
