I always thought my travel life would change drastically when I had a baby, and yes that has happened but what has surprised me the most whilst incorporating my little one into our lifestyle is how much a child can enhance your travel experience. I still travel often, the main differences are we are taking things more slowly, factoring in naps and have had to boycott the nightlife aspect of our travels. There are so many ways she has improved it. Of course, I miss having a night time social life but my stamina is slowly declining these days so I can’t say it bothers me too much.
Here are five ways a child can enhance your travel experience:
1) We chat to locals we may not ordinarily have an opportunity talk to
All too often locals and other tourists come and interact with Esmé. This is subsequently a natural lead into conversation. It has been amazing for us in getting to know other people, especially the locals. I can’t see how I may have started a conversation with these people otherwise.
2) More often than not we get to skip arduous queues
Many airports and other such places notice us with a baby and take us to the front of a queue. It doesn’t happen everywhere but it’s extremely helpful when it does. Recently when we were stood at the back of a three hour queue in Havana airport, we were taken to the front. The lady who was next in line had a melt down and gave us some serious evil looks. I felt sorry for her as she had been waiting for ages but I didn’t get too involved as the staff dealt with her. Let’s just say her attitude didn’t go down too well with the staff. So as much as it is helpful, there will always be one or two haters. I say they should get a toddler to stand in line for three hours and then come back to me!
We also really feel the difference when travelling without Esmé through an airport- sooo much queuing!
3) I see destinations through different eyes
I definitely notice more of my surroundings in comparison to pre-baby travels. For example children in a playground, what are they like and how do they play together? Does Esmé enjoy being here? I notice things I would have previously not taken much of an interest in because Esmé has specifically pointed it out. For example when we were in South Africa recently she was fascinated with walking around a market that had lots of African jewellery so we spent some time exploring.
4) Taking it slowly actually means you get to know a place, its culture and the people much better
When we were in Vietnam for example, we spent almost two weeks in one city. I have never done that before. It was really refreshing to get a good feel for the area. I loved returning to our favourite spots throughout our time there. Although Esmé grew a liking to their local Cao Lao noodle dish and unfortunately did not eat anything for ages after we left.
5) We never have a hangover
It goes without saying party days are well and truly over. A stark comparison to pre-baby holidays when we use to feel a little shady hiding behind our sunglasses and requiring regular naps! It is quite nice to always feel fresh and take in the surroundings. Coconuts seem a good replacement- Just kidding!
In summary…
Obviously it’s not always perfect. Our disaster stories always seem to involve shit nappies and major accidents. So I am not trying to kid you here. I just want to highlight what is great. Positive vibes!!
Do you have any other amazing ways you feel your child has enhanced your travel experience ? let me know and leave a comment!
Related: Read the ultimate guide to travelling with an infant because as you can see it can be quite positive!
See also:
- Backpacking with a baby
- Five things to consider for your babymoon trip
- Twelve reasons to travel during maternity leave
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14 Comments on "Five ways a child can enhance your travel experience"
Love this article thanks for sharing. I too love the vibe kids bring to a travel experience they add so much more to it I think bringing in the fresh early mornings and the things you wouldn’t normally notice….thanks for sharing
I totally agree with you. Thank you so much for taking the time to comment.
It’s really refreshing to read this article. As a young mom, who always had dreams to travel, I thought my traveling hopes were lost when I had a baby. You have shined a new light on the subject and now I’m excited to bring my little boy around the world 🙂
Thank you.
Thank you so much. I hope your travel dreams come true.
Great post! When we travel with out our little one now I constantly find myself saying “she would love to do this”, makes me realize I enjoy traveling with her more than without! They really do make you slow down and simplify your trips!
Ah lovely, just had a look at your blog, amazing! Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Traveling with kids is so fun but yes i think we should bring and consider more things to be done and brought. It takes more responsible to take care of kids during traveling but your post is so useful,.Thank u for sharing
Travelling through a child’s eyes is a gift beyond belief, I love your travel stories and tips. When I travelled as single mum with my son I never know we would experience the true beauty a life of travel brings, find us http://www.singlemumtravels.com we’d love to hear from you!
Tina-louise
Hey Natasha, this is so lovely thanks for sharing. It sounds like you are super insightful and thoughtful person x
Amazing enjoy it xxxxx