Transitioning from the hectic, day-to-day, mommy lifestyle into a vacation mode takes some mental and physical preparation. By taking steps to properly plan for family vacations, I find that each day I build my anticipation while crossing one more item off my "to do" list! This starts from ensuring I have proper travel documents set aside, prescriptions filled, extra memory card or spare batteries for digital camera, and newspaper halted! I do a lot of research about my dream trips—from destination information, to reading about the ship or the property, to reading past traveler’s reviews.
Preparation is the key! I find if I pre-plan much of the family vacation before going and knowing what is possible to do with children (researching kid-friendly activities, scheduling a resort dive lesson, reserving the special fishing charter, taking my own snorkeling gear, slating my semi-private ski lesson for the 2nd day), my anticipation is much greater and I am much more at ease while on the trip.
To help get me into the mindset of vacationing, I take time to plan out some fun, vacation outfits (and a shopping trip for a new pair of sandals is always required for both me and my 3-year-old) or do a checklist to ensure I have all of the needed attire for family members. Depending on the type of trip, I also have to ensure I’m physically ready. If it’s a ski vacation, then I will be sure to increase my stamina by running more or doing different types of leg lifts to get those quads ready for the slopes. If I know I’ll be in tropical locations, I definitely hit the gym and increase my intake of fruit and salads to ensure that I will not be shy strolling the lido deck, especially with post-baby body!
Once I hit the day of travel, my mind begins to go into the official decompression mode! Typically, if traveling by air, I treat myself to a great cup of coffee at the airport to start my relaxation. And I start by reading that special book or magazine I've been staring at but bills or work papers have won the battle at home for my eye attention. One of the required reading items is something about where I'm traveling to...whether about an island that the cruise is stopping at or about an activity I'm going to do while in port! Yes, this is possible even with kids as I have packed special books and surprises to keep them entertained.
Once I arrive, I immediately take in the scenery, the scents, the vibrant colors and sounds. I then take time to look around to get my bearings...such as a tour of the ship. When cruising, one of our first stops is visiting the children’s area to ensure our little one is comfortable. We do not use this feature often, but it is nice to be able to have an hour or so to take in a fitness class, enjoy a spa treatment, or adult-only drink at one of the many entertainment venues. Then I remind myself...I am on vacation and I need to savor every moment, maximize my travel time, take advantage of uninterrupted family time, and escape!
How do you prepare to disconnect from daily life to vacation life?
--Jenn
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