Have you ever looked at your little ones and thought, “Maybe we’ll travel when they’re older”? If so, you’re not alone. But what if I told you that waiting isn’t necessary? That family vacations with your children, regardless of their age, can not only be doable but downright delightful?
In this episode of my Burnt Pancakes Podcast, I, Katie Fenske, sat down with Lee Friedman of Mango Tree Travel to debunk the myths around family travel and share how you can craft vacations that bond, enrich, and bring joy to your family.
Travel With Kids: More Than Possible, It’s Essential
Lee, a former corporate lawyer turned travel entrepreneur, argues that postponing travel until kids are older is a missed opportunity. As a mother who’s taken her kids everywhere from the Caribbean to Colombia, she insists that traveling with kids enhances the journey, offering unique and deepening family bonds.
Her company, Mango Tree Travel, was born out of the frustration many parents feel when trying to find family-friendly accommodations. By focusing on the specific needs of traveling families, Lee’s mission is to help parents like us look beyond the standard double-bed hotel room and towards luxurious and fulfilling vacations for the whole family.
Modern Travel Advisors: Your Family Vacation Tailors
Today’s travel advisors, Lee explains, are much more than booking agents. They are bespoke vacation crafters who understand the nuanced needs of families on the go. From finding the perfect kid-friendly hotels and arranging seamless transfers to planning activities that respect your children’s routines, a modern travel advisor is like your personal travel concierge.
From Toddlers to Teens: Navigating the Travel Landscape
Lee and I share personal anecdotes about traveling with children at different stages. Whether it’s dealing with not-so-toddler-friendly accommodations or strategizing your vacation schedule to align with your children’s needs, there’s always a solution. Lee offers invaluable tips for parents to select destinations and accommodations that cater to the comfort of every family member.
Dream Destinations and Travel Tips
Where to next? Lee and I dish our favorite family travel spots, from the lesser-known Bonaire to the prospect of an exhilarating family safari. We emphasize the importance of keeping kids engaged during flights, with travel kits or new toys, and the power of headphones for peaceful journeys.
Transforming Travel From Chaotic to Charmed
Reflecting on the essence of traveling with kids, I share stories that remind us of the lasting impact these experiences have. From the joy children find in the simple things, like a hotel room adventure, to considering travel as an investment in family memories, my podcast concludes with a powerful message: the real value of family vacations lies in the cherished moments created.
Final Thoughts
Lee Friedman’s insights provide a new perspective on family travel. It’s not about waiting for the perfect age or fearing the challenges. It’s about embracing the opportunity to create unforgettable memories now. With the help of experts like Lee, you can turn what seems like a daunting task into a seamless and joyful adventure.
Ready to pack your bags and embark on a family journey like no other? Mango Tree Travel and the wisdom shared in this Burnt Pancakes Podcast episode are your starting points for a blissful adventure with your little ones. And remember, as I always say, “everyone burns their first pancake, even while traveling, so just keep flipping.”
For those eager to more, listen to the full episode and find out how you can transform your next family trip from chaotic to enchanted. Your tribe is waiting for their next great adventure – don’t let them wait too long.
