Blog 1 of Top 25 Travel Blogs by Parents

Favorite Blog Posts

• Every market gardener I see reminds me of my father
• Germany: an overview and the highlights
• Happy Birthday Luca!

One Of The Funniest Experiences I've Had Traveling With Kids

We arrived in Railay,Thailand without a room reservation. The search for accommodation, laden down, with luggage was hot work. So Luca and I guarded the bags at a cafe/bar while Phil continued the search solo. We ordered two 7-Up's eschewing Luca's usual fruit juices for something easier on his tummy as he'd had a few days of “Thai belly”. Our drinks arrived bedecked with a slice of lime, a flower and, as always, with any drink in Thailand, a straw. Luca and I, both thirsty from our exertions, began to quaff. I did think that perhaps my 7-Up tasted a bit odd but it was Luca who said - “Mama, WHAT is in this?”. While taking another sip, I replied with a confused look “Hmm..I don't know. Maybe it's the lime or....” while, mentally, the penny had started to drop. Our drink was a draft. At the same time the barman, noting my bewilderment, came over to confirm that we were both drinking Vodkas and 7-Up! My 2 year old son and I. From a straw. “Woops!” is probably a massive understatement!

A Piece Of Travel Advice For Moms 

It would have to be not to underestimate the adaptability of children. Being a lawyer by occupation I have a risk averse nature. I worried so much in the months before we set off on our trip about taking our then two year old son Luca away from his home, grandparents, extended family and friends for so long and about how he would adjust to our life en famille on the road. All of my worrying was needless as it transpired. As I now know from experience children are versatile and have an amazing ability to accept and just be in the moment. Love is a constant that they need in buckets but “home” really comes down to a feeling of security and being loved - no matter where you are.

Where I'd Go If I Could Take My Kids Anywhere In The World

I am biased admittedly as we have spent almost 6 months here now but SE Asia tops our little family's poll for fabulous family fun & culture. It has it all: warm people, great weather, beautiful beaches, brilliant markets, breathtaking scenery, majestic temples, exotic animals and good food. If I could pick anywhere in the world though to have a family holiday house it would be France. It was my first ever “foreign” holiday destination and it was love at first sight. It is a country to which I am drawn time and time again. There's something timeless about certain parts of France where life is simple, rustic and yet civilised. It's family friendly too. We spent six weeks cycling there last year and it had the best playgrounds, picnic spots, swimming pools and campsites of all of the European countries we visited. My dream is to one day have a rustic old pile in the countryside there where our family can go on holidays every year up until the grandchildren arrive. And beyond!