Here is a little article on my tips for stress-free family travel, as featured in the May issue of Cookie Magazine.  I sound super-spoilt travelling six times a year, but that includes the little weekend trips taken on a whim and in this economic downturn, that is something we can all do a little more of.  

Before having children, Bittu and I would land up in a new country, get in a taxi and stop wherever looked promising, walk around and find a hotel that appealed and in doing so we always got a good deal, but as importantly, it added to our sense of adventure.  Obviously with children, that becomes rather more difficult, but we do plan short weekend breaks on a whim and just call the hotels of our choice a day or two before travelling and this always leads to a great deal and extras thrown in.  We only tell the children once the plans are made and treat it as a surprise reward for great behaviour.   We will make another short trip soon as a reward for my son learning to cycle.  I honestly can’t remember the last time I felt such joy and wonderment, as when I saw him cycling independently down our road last week.  I could go on and on about the moment, the excitement, but for anyone who has been there, they know what I mean and for those who will soon get there, enjoy the ride.