GOASIAPLUS February 2017

FYI
the same when we planned
a trip to Pulau Redang,
Terengganu. The prospect
of crossing the sea on a
boat and seeing crystalclear
waters with visible
corals and fish got her
giddy with anticipation.
Rules and safety
If you are ying
somewhere, especially
for the first time with
kids, brief them about
the plane environment. While most kids get exhilarated about
watching the clouds, once aboard the burst of endorphin will
only last a while. The moment they find out they are stuck
inside for over an hour or two, tantrums will be high. Therefore,
it is vital to go through the dos and don’ts on the plane. Even
though the lesson may fall on deaf ears, they will benefit from
the familiarisation effort.
Many may find the in-ight entertainment system a
blessing, but in some cases (i.e on long-haul ights), they are
not reliable. So, plan some activities to fill the void during
the journey. Try not to depend on electronic gadgets as it
could adversely affect their eyes (as well as mood) due to the
electronic vibrations. Cards can be a good bet.
Packing for the trip
Once you have foreseen the worst case scenarios, it is easier
to handle packing. I’d advise parents to take the en approach
be a minimalist. My husband and I made enough mistakes to
realise that over packing can murder a trip. Imagine lugging
EERYTHIN, WITH YOUR KIDS throughout your trip.
Only pack the necessities medical supplies (if your kids have
allergies or acute illnesses) and comfortable outfits.
Keep important travel documents, if you are crossing
borders, within reach (in your hand carry), to avoid the hassle
of looking for them while at the airport. My husband and I opt
for a thin plastic folder that can be zipped shut to keep our
e-tickets, passports and boarding pass. Also print out hotel
reservations just for reference.
When we are roaming the streets of, say, Malacca’s onker’s
Street, I always opt for light sling bags as it is easier to reach for
things like wet tissues, sun block, sunglasses and gummy bears
while having both hands free to handle them.
Apart from preventing dehydration and cranky moods, this
arrangement also prevents untoward incidents. You are more
able to stop them from crossing the road unsupervised or
jumping into the nearest lake.
Destination
When you pick your
destination, it is important
for parents to note the
current political and social
climate of the location.
While some may have been
distracted by affordable
ticket prices, some fail
to research the current
situation of their travel
destinations which may
affect the safety and health of
your children. Never compromise safety for fun when you plan
your travel spots.
Highlands can be very peaceful but make sure the kids are
well-clothed and hydrated. Pick places that offers a variety of
attractions within the range. Batu City, Malang in Indonesia can
be a wonderful one-stop, family-oriented travel spot. Thanks
to the cold weather, you can go apple-picking at Kusuma Agro
Wisata, as well as visit ATIM animal park that house exotic
animals from penguins to white tigers.
Proper planning is key to a great family getaway. Make your
vacation an unforgettable experience for you and your kids.
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