Family holidays are so important. When I was growing up, I still remember the thrill of going abroad for the first time, the excitement of my very first flight, and trying new activities whilst on holiday. They all form part of my treasured childhood memories.

I want my children to have the same opportunity to travel and experience new things. Hopefully, my boys will think of us as the parents that were very active in their lives, trying to make it as appealing as possible. I love putting time and thought into planning our family holidays. Looking for a variety of attractions to keep things interesting.

Escapism

At home there is no escaping the mundane – all the chores and responsibilities you feel you need to tick off on a daily basis! On a family holiday you can relax and unwind. Forget about the long list of things that need to be done and actually make the most of your break.

Something to Look Forward To

This year has been harder for many of us, we haven’t been able to venture as far. We were very fortunate to get our family holiday to Orlando in February just before lockdown. But sadly, lots of travel plans have been scuppered. I am hoping 2021 we can book another family holiday abroad. We have a jar filled with all the places we want to visit when life returns to normal.  My eldest is keen for us to visit Dubai, so I was looking on the Voyage Privé site.

His friend lives in Dubai and I know my son really wants to fly out there and have the “official” tour off him! We were meant to go to Dubai in 2018 but sickness meant we had to cancel. We had everything planned out too, all the sights we would see, so it would be fantastic if we could finally visit and get over the disappointment. It would be something to look forward to, holidays are a type of family tradition and traditions tend to give children a sense of security, so I do want to try and continue with our yearly trip abroad somewhere.

A Chance To Connect

A family holiday brings you together. At home children might have their own plans about how they spend their time. As they get older, they tend to want to hang out with their friends more, either in real life or online gaming with them. But a holiday gives you a chance to reconnect. Quality time in each other’s company without distractions. Time is one of the most precious things you can give your children.

Health Benefits

Getting away as a family is good for the mind and the body. It can make you forget anything you are worried about. So, it’s now wonder those returning from holidays have lower blood pressure and stress levels.  Family members can blank out issues with work or school, instead giving themselves a chance to recuperate. Then they can return feeling revived with renewed energy. Basically, ready to face life head-on! This works wonders for family relationships, because everyone is in a better mood and a lot less frazzled!

Smarter Children

Going on holiday can actually make your child smarter. Gunnell (2005) thought that enriched environments offered more to children’s development.  On holiday your more likely to explore the area, having new inspiring experiences. At the very least your children will be more entertaining because they will have more to talk about. My boys have done all kinds on holiday, like llama trekking, indoor skydiving, feeding giraffe and meeting a sloth. I am hoping it makes them more adventurous but if it also boosts their IQ then its a welcome bonus!