Parents-to-be often worries about the sacrifices they’ll need to make after having kids, with travel topping the list. While traveling with little ones will be different, exploring new places as a family is still possible. Unfortunately, the U.S. doesn’t always prioritize families with children, but many other countries do. Many cultures expect children to be incorporated into everyday life, whether they ride public transport, eat out, or visit national monuments.
According to Stephanie Claytor, founder of Blacktrekking, all-inclusive resorts offer convenient benefits like not having to carry a car seat around or rent a car. They also usually have amenities like toddler pools, kids’ areas, activities, and sometimes even childcare. The buffets have a range of food options for babies and toddlers, and the rooms come with refrigerators for storing their food and milk.
Image Credit: Photograph by D Ramey Logan, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Jamaica
Claytor recommends Jamaica for all-inclusive accommodations, beautiful beaches, and clear Caribbean water. She remembers taking her son to Negril for his second birthday and watching him dance to reggae music during an all-white party. Though they stayed away from the crowded dance floor, they still enjoyed the music from the back.
Portugal
According to Orgias, Lisbon may seem daunting to explore with small children due to its hills. However, they found it easy to take the bus to most places, which was efficient and clean, with stops everywhere. Lisbon also offers plenty of parks and green spaces where kids can play and break up a day of sightseeing.
Image Credit: Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Mexico
Orgias recommends Mexico City for families because of its excellent train system and walkability. She says worrying about car seats and rideshares can scare parents, but good public transportation options can ease these concerns.
Canada
Orgias describes Toronto as a city with diverse cultural offerings, including the CN Tower, Centre Island, and summer festivals. Montreal has plenty of parks, museums, and historical sites to explore, while Quebec City offers a European-style feel with its cobblestone streets. Animal lovers can visit the zoo and aquarium, while Toronto Island Park offers bike trails, picnic areas, and an amusement park. It is also possible to tour Niagara Falls from Toronto.