Indonesia
Family Vacations Common Mistakes
Family vacation ends happily when everyone is happy. And everyone will be happy if everything is well planned. We are so ready to go having fun, some items often missed out and get over with. This is often become the nuisance during the trip, Superparents. Just what are the most common vacation mistakes we usually do?
Overpacking
Children always want to have a trip with their favorite items that they most likely don’t have time for. Story book (to read before bed, instead they will fall asleep even before washing their feet), big conditioner, four slippers, dozens of potato chips and others. It’s important to carry meal and first aid kit. But perhaps we just need to leave the rest behind. Set example for the kids of what we need most. Want to carry the stuffed cat? Sure, but only that. Over packed will be more of trouble than helpful in a trip.
Less Entertainment on the Way
Having vacation doesn’t mean we arrive there instantly, right? There will be time when we all must sit for hours and enjoy the view from the window. Make sure kids have something to keep their mood. Gadget, crayon and other toys can be a good choice. Snack is a must (but not too much). Instead of picking what’s available on the road, it’s better to prepare some homemade snacks, healthier and tastier.
Assuming Educational Sites are Boring
A lot of Superparent are reluctant to take kids somewhere with educational atmosphere, like museum or bookstore. They are worry if the kids will take such places boring and can’t enjoy them. Eventually the holiday is spent on some costly sites. There’s nothing wrong with spending leisure time on a playground or mall, just as it is on museum or bookstores. Try stopping by to Museum Satwa in Jatim Park 2, Batu, East Java. It’s Indonesian largest museum that have the most amazing collection of animal replicates. Don’t be surprised if the kids will want to go there again next year.
Schedule is Too Tight
Passionate of taking kids to all the sites? Slow down, Supermom. Fit the will and the condition. Trying to stop by in many places in one day is tiring and stressful. The kids will feel more like marathon rather than vacation. Turn the pace down and enjoy the rhythm. Give time to observe and explore to enjoy a more relaxing vacation.
Too Much Money on Meal
Have burger and bottled drink along the way, hmm sounds fresh. The thing is, instant meal or bottled drink cost quite some money too. What about less instant meal and jump to the main course when hungry? Try one portion first, order some more when you still feel like it. Otherwise, order a jumbo portion to eat together.
HAFIDA INDRAWATI
PHOTOS: THINKSTOCK PHOTOS
