Before starting, being a parent is the greatest feeling in the world, and I wouldn’t trade my boys for anything. Having said that, I must admit that I wish the “younger” me had lived at a time where travel was as accessible as it is today. Quite frankly, if you are a travel enthusiast without any commitments, you’ve no reason not to see the world in 2016 and beyond.
Many vacations are actively made better by having the kids by your side. However, these three bucket list items are ones that should ideally be completed while you can still make the most of them.
If you’re struggling for travel ideas next year, these could be the perfect solutions.
Volunteering Abroad
Gap years have become an increasingly popular option for school and college leavers in recent years. But you don’t need to be in that position to pack your bags and start an epic adventure. If you aren’t feeling fully satisfied with your life right now, this could be the perfect way to inject some love back into it.
Volunteering abroad is a great way to see real people in different cultures. Meanwhile, it’s a journey of self-discovery that will inevitably make you a better person. Animal lovers can sign up for the great project to get up close with species that they wouldn’t get to see in their normal lives.
The extended period away from home means it’s unlikely to be a good idea for parents. For those without that kind of commitment, though, it can be a life-changing experience like no other. If you have the chance to complete this adventure, grab it with both hands.
Physical Challenge Trips
There’s a whole world waiting to be explored. However, some of the best destinations require a lot of work before seeing those rewards. Young bodies aren’t cut out for these vacations. But it doesn’t mean you should miss out.
Taking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is one bucket list item that stands out. The Peruvian destination is one of the world’s most awe-inspiring sights and is one that will stay with every visitor for a lifetime. Isn’t that exactly what great holidays are all about?
This is a physical challenge, though. By raising money for charity, you’ll be giving the trip another purpose.
Luxury Getaway
Seeing spectacular sights is high on the agenda of any travel lover. Nevertheless, there are times when you can’t beat a few days of recuperation in paradise.
Some locations are ideal for kids, especially those hotels built with family vacations in mind. But there are times when relaxing in adult company is the perfect solution for removing the stress of modern life. With the right plan of action, you can find these ideal holidays on a relatively small budget too.
Ah, sitting in the sun with a cocktail and a great book. It doesn’t get any better than that. It is a trip you can take as a parent, but there’s no doubt that the relaxed vibes will be far greater before having those commitments.
Have you ever taken any of the vacations I mentioned above? Any of them spark some interest?
Victoria says
This is so great! My boyfriend and I keep getting asked about marriage, but we want to do some travelling first! Thanks 🙂
Dana says
Thanks Victoria! I totally recommend traveling first – I wish I did some more!
Chel says
I’d love to go and see Machu Picchu. These are great tips… my husband and I are looking forward to a luxurious getaway for our honeymoon… can’t say that I’d do that a lot with a kid.
Excellent post! Cheers!
Dana says
Thanks Chel! Where are you planning on going for your honeymoon?
Chrissy says
These are some great tips! We love traveling but it’s just not the same once you are a parent! Have a fab weekend!
Dana says
Thanks Chrissy! I wish I knew about these opportunities before I had the boys, but at least I can share it with everyone 🙂
Cori says
And a road trip to this one. Doesn’t even have to be across the country. Just maybe 8+ hours. Hubby and I have been together for 10 years and last year was our first road trip together. Definitely learned some more stuff! (Like I need to bring noise cancelling headphones for when he wants to listen to Metallica and I want to sleep!)
Dana says
Good addition Cori! I love that you get to know each other even more – I would need to noise canceling headphones for snoring…lol
Branson @ My Reflection of Something says
Volunteering abroad is a great idea! While I am VERY settled, I can tell you that a luxury getaway sounds divine right about now, ha! Those never go out of demand. 😉
Dana says
LOL I completely agree with you Branson!
Natalie says
I know that I’m probably the exception rather than the rule, but I’ve actually traveled more since my daughter came along! 😀 We’re hoping to raise her up to appreciate traveling and all that it can teach her. That being said, we still do a few adults-only trips each year because parenting is exhausting, and it’s fun to sleep in for a few days!
Dana says
Natalie, I wish I did that early on with my boys! We are traveling more than a few years ago, and we hit some bumps in the road. I too would love for my boys to appreciate traveling and open their eyes to what is out there in the world!
Sabrina @ Pink Little Notebook says
This is such great advice! My husband and I love to travel and have done many adventurous trips as we could. We are leaving all the family vacation spots to when we have kids.