Booking a vacation as a single person or as a couple is drastically different from booking a trip for you and your family. Prior to having kids, you may have indulged in raucous party vacations, or jetted off for a romantic weekend away with your partner. But when two become four (or five, or six!), you had to think about your little people too. Obvious options for children’s vacas are destinations such as Disney World, or European destinations such as Italy. However, who was it that said you have to tick exotic destinations off the list just because you have children? Travelling and experiencing different cultures can be hugely beneficial for young children as it can help shape them. Going somewhere like India can be daunting at first, but if you choose to take your family on vacation here, it can be an experience they’ll remember forever. Follow these tips to give your family the Indian experience of a lifetime.
Explain the cultural differences
Children tend to enjoy visiting India because it is so busy, bright and colorful. However, if your child is not prepared for certain cultural differences, they could find the experience intimidating. Sit down with them before your trip and explain anything you think they will need to know. The humid weather, the busy streets and the food are all good places to start.
Be vigilant when out and about
India is famed for having exceptionally busy and dangerous roads, especially in its major cities. Cars, taxis, tuk-tuks and even cows all wander these roads at free will, so it is vital to have your wits about you at all times. Encourage your children to hold hands and make sure you all get in the same form of transport, if you are using cabs or tuk-tuks. Visit an India travel forum to see what other parents have to say, and to find tips on staying safe abroad.
Consider a homestay
India has a rich and diverse tourist scene – and whilst being in a luxury resort sounds dreamy, it’s not for everyone. Plus, many 4 and 5-star resorts, unfortunately, don’t even accept families with children. If you are looking to experience the true India, why not consider a homestay? Staying with a local family is a perfect way to introduce your kids to Indian culture, as Indians are some of the friendliest people around. They love to include you in their everyday lives and your children can learn all sorts of skills, from farming to cooking.
Visit local animals
Most children love animals, and India has some of the richest wildlife going. Take a sleeper train and visit the more rural parts of the country, home to many national parks and nature reserves. Avoid certain animal sanctuaries as many are unethical and the animals may have been treated with tranquilizers. Instead, stick to reserves and animal parks where your children can see the animals in their natural habitats. Perilyar in Kerala is a popular spot to see wild elephants, and Ranthambore is home to many wild Bengal Tigers.
Eat the local food
Your children may turn their noses up at local cuisine, but encourage them to at least try it. Traditional Indian cuisine is actually a lot less fatty than the Western versions we have come to know. So, it’s actually a great way to get them to eat more vegetables. If you can, speak with your waiters to see if they can recommend a particularly mild curry for your children. Don’t forget to drink lots of bottled water and to give your children rehydration salts if they fall victim to “traveller’s belly.”
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