Selecting
A Family Travel Destination
Out of guilt
or a need to maximize the amount of time we spend with our children,
we have convinced ourselves for years that a family vacation requires
sacrificing the interests of the parents to satisfy the needs
of the kids. Thus whether traveling half way around the world
or driving a mere two hours from home many of us are heading to
the same location: a child-friendly resort.
This need not
to be the rule. Many independent hotels and lodges have discovered
how to make an adult environment work for kids and may be more
child welcoming than those that bill themselves as child-friendly.
Not surprisingly,
smaller hotels, inns and lodges - many of them luxurious - are
leading the pack. The atmosphere is cozy and the service, more
personalized. In addition, your family will probably get more
exposure to the local culture - not to mention cuisine - in a
smaller hotel than is possible in a big international resort.
Children profit
the most. Many cultures embrace kids. Thus a large part of the
experience in countries such as Argentina and Turkey is the interaction
with the locals. Exploring other cultures provides children with
a unique education; it broadens their horizon and helps them to
learn more about life.
What you need
to know
Some smaller
hotels may not offer round-the-clock service or traditional in-room
services, such as minibar, tv and video games but are likely to
be more spontaneous, warm your baby's bottle with a smile or offer
your child a dish that is not on the menu.
Children's meals
may mean that kids are not allowed in the dinning room. Aside
from providing parents with a reprieve, kids-only meals usually
offer food they like and give them a chance to make new friends.
No kids clubs.
Relax. While it may take a day or two and a bit parental encouragement,
kids will rediscover how easy it is to make friends and create
fun, on their own.
If the environment
is relaxed, children will be relaxed as well.
·In a
smaller hotel, you are likely to feel comfortable allowing your
kids to explore on their own.
Rules of thumb
Review the
hotel’s website. Find out if it belongs to a local or an international
association. Is it recommended by your travel agent or a leading
tour operator? Has it been rated?
If the website
does not mention children, they may not be welcome. A telephone
call or email will avoid unwanted surprises.
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