Child-friendly Travel

Travel Through Fresh Eyes

Author Robert Benchley was quoted as saying, “In America there are two classes of travel — first class, and with children.”

On the other hand, if you travel with a child — especially an inquisitive and curious child — that travel experience will take on greater depths of meaning because while you are explaining to the child what “it” is all about, you will probably come to a greater understanding of your own perceptions.

---

Here are some resources that will help children travel well — with you.

What you need to know about travel with kids
In a resource page on About.com, writer Teresa Plowright gives views and reviews of children-oriented travel destinations.

Traveling internationally with children
French educator Michel de Montaigne (1533-1592) said it a long time ago: “Je veux que le monde soit le livre de mon écolier/( I want the world to be my student's textbook).”

And as any travel journalist will tell you, travel is the most experiential method of learning. The above linked website gives a good overview of the subject.

Flying with children
Like any travel, it has to be planned carefully. However it can also be pleasant. This site gives some good tips.

Theme Parks
If a theme park is on your itinerary, you might want to read this.

Health Issues
The Center for Diseases Control has specific information relating to traveling with children.

Advice From Fodor's
Fodor's is one of the most poular and practical series of travel guides. This site gives some very sensible and consumer-oriented advice.

A Special Note

Immigration authorities in most countries are becoming increasingly vigilant when children are crossing international borders. Whether travelling alone or accompanied by an adult, each child traveling abroad must have a valid passport plus supporting documentation: i.e. birth certificate showing the names of both parents and/or legal documents pertaining to custody. As well the adults traveling with the minor children are strongly advised to hold a letter of travel consent signed by the parent(s) or guardian(s) with legal custody. The letter must include the signor's address and phone details. It is recommended that this letter be notarized. If a parent/guardian is divorced or deceased, custody document or death certificate is required.