Ten Tips for Travel with Kids
#1 - Lollipops
We pack a supply of small lollypops and bestow one carefully timed, daily dose. This little girl, whom we met at baggage claim, got her entire annual allotment on one stick!
#2 – Location, location, location!
Pick a neighborhood where locals live and shop. We rented an apartment in Eixample, just two blocks from the fabulously restored Mercat de Sant Antoni.
#3 – Load up on supplies
Books, art projects, even cake mixes for baking
#4 – Find playgrounds
Use Google, or Rick Steves. Parc de Pegaso, 30 minutes by Metro was so good, we went three times!
#5 – Let them Climb.
No park nearby? They can get their yayas out on any reasonable surface (until the guards tell you no).
#6 - Feed them, constantly.
Pack snacks and stop for hot chocolate. Every day? Why not?
#7 – Expect the unexpected
We never made it to our touristy destination – they were happier chasing bubbles ….
#8 - Build in some down time
Nothing wrong with letting them chill out and watch kids’ movies while you’re setting up an art project or baking adventure.
#9 – Enjoy holidays & festivals
Know when shops are closed, and when the whole town comes out to celebrate. Dia de los Reyes Magos, aka The Three Kings Parade, is Barcelona’s biggest annual festival. It marched right by our corner!
#10 - Know When to Fold ‘em
You’re on their schedule, not yours. When they’ve had enough, head home.