“`html
Image courtesy of the author
- I transitioned from California to Germany while expecting my second child.
- My children are currently 8, 5, and 3 years old, and traveling with them proved challenging.
- I had to modify my expectations and organize trips that everyone could appreciate.
When I made the move from California to Germany while four months pregnant with my second child, I envisioned all the adventures my husband and I would embark on with our kids—swimming in the azure waters of Greece, hiking through Slovenia’s majestic mountains, and enjoying theatrical performances in London’s West End.
This desire for exploration was fueled by social media influencers showcasing their travels with young children.
The Difference Between Dreams and Reality
However, during our trip to Greece where we stayed at an Airbnb just a mile away from the Ionian Sea, I found myself more preoccupied with concerns about my kids potentially damaging fragile decor than actually enjoying our time there.
At iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, instead of soaking in breathtaking views, I often found myself saying things like ”Please stop yelling.”
While at home or daycare they thrived among friends on playgrounds—laughing and playing freely—on vacation—in airplanes or museums—I expected them to behave as if they were miniature adults.
I desperately wanted them to experience new cultures; however, despite all our meticulous planning for trips that included our three little ones aged 3, 5, and 8 years old—the experiences were far from enjoyable for anyone involved.
A New Way to Vacation
I realized it was time for a change. Instead of aiming for grand adventures far away that might not suit young children’s needs well enough; I began searching for family-friendly destinations closer to home. We explored Kassel—a charming stop along Germany’s fairytale route known as the Brothers Grimm’s hometown—and spent a week in Leipzig where we discovered that while the zoo delighted us all immensely; cultural sites like Bach Museum didn’t quite capture their interest.
I learned it was essential not only to encourage exploration but also allow them simply enjoy being kids without pressure or expectations attached.
This past August holiday saw us taking a three-hour train journey towards an area where local art flourished within craft rooms alongside bratwurst stands serving ice cream—a perfect blend! In essence: we attended a family camp!
This shift in mindset allowed me lower expectations regarding what vacations should entail; ultimately leading us toward one of our most enjoyable holidays together yet!
Relaxation Through Fun
Liberating my children’s enjoyment led me towards relaxation too—even if only slightly manageable as a mother juggling three little ones!
I’m not inclined towards spending every vacation day at crowded indoor water parks filled with other families’ noise—but I’m learning how crucial it is embracing age-appropriate fun which may differ significantly from what I’d previously envisioned (or seen online).
I remain hopeful that as they grow older we’ll eventually embark upon those dream trips I’ve always imagined—like cycling across Europe or witnessing their surprise when discovering how small The Mona Lisa truly is! This thought helps me endure even lengthy puppet shows performed entirely in languages unfamiliar!
The upcoming school break will take us somewhere featuring both amusement rides plus indoor water activities—we’ll bundle up against chilly weather while screaming joyfully down roller coasters indulging ourselves on overpriced cotton candy paired alongside homemade peanut butter & jelly sandwiches! At no point do I intend telling them “be quiet.”
< p>The cost may not be drastically lower than before but these local laid-back vacations offer something luxurious hotels abroad never could: genuine quality time spent together as a family!
Source
“`
