Before I became a parent, I adored spontaneous travel, hopping on planes with just a backpack and a guidebook. I’d rush from one sight to another, often returning to my hotel late, exhausted yet excited for another day of exploration.
Once I had kids, my travel philosophy shifted drastically. The unstructured, jam-packed itineraries that suited me before were no longer viable; my children thrived on predictability and play. It was a challenging transition, but now, traveling with my kids brings me immense joy.
My little ones have significantly enriched my travel experiences in these four ways:
### Embracing Slow Travel
Previously, I avoided revisiting places, eager to experience as much of the world as possible in a short time. However, my children’s need for a slower pace transformed my perspective. On a recent trip to Rome, instead of racing through the Colosseum, we took our time, laughing and imagining the ancient battles that unfolded there. We even enrolled in Gladiator School to learn the art of combat together—an adventure I wouldn’t have considered without them.
Spending time soaking in the local culture rather than rushing through attractions has become my new norm. My kids instinctively listen to their bodies, reminding me that it’s okay to take breaks. Though this means skipping certain activities, I’ve learned to appreciate the more relaxed pace.
### Seeking Local Experiences
Traveling used to be about immersing myself in new cultures and having unique experiences. Now, my kids have shown me that it’s enriching to engage in familiar activities in unfamiliar settings. Playing soccer in Marrakesh with local children was a highlight of my son’s trip to Morocco. Despite our language barriers, we exchanged treats and bonded over our favorite soccer teams using translation apps.
Shopping, once a low priority for me, has turned into a delightful pastime thanks to my daughter. Whether we’re exploring underground markets in India or indulging in unique products in Jordan, I’ve discovered how engaging with local life fosters genuine connections.
### Prioritizing Fun
While my motivation to travel has always been to see the world, I never made intentional time for fun. With kids, I now actively seek out enjoyable activities for the whole family. Running around the Tower of London or savoring the zing of Turkish ice cream on the streets of Istanbul helps maintain my kids’ energy for museums and historical sites.
I’ve learned to carve out time for my own enjoyment, too. Whether it’s indulging in a massage or unwinding in a hot tub, I now recognize the importance of pleasure during our travels, which I once thought of as time wasted.
### Planning Ahead
In my pre-kid travels, I rarely made reservations or laid out an itinerary in advance. My kids, however, benefit from a bit more structure. Although I miss the thrill of spontaneous adventures, planning ahead ensures we don’t miss essential sights and allows my kids to express their preferences before it’s too late.
Traveling with children has reshaped my approach, leading me to cherish moments of joy, connection, and exploration in ways I never anticipated.