I recently returned from a one week vacation at an all-inclusive resort in Punta-Cana, Dominican. Upon my return my family and friends asked how it went. I couldn’t help but beam in delight as I reminisced about our trip. I was in my element: beach and sun. I was happy and truly RELAXED. When I used that word to describe our vacation, I was met with confused looks and surprised expression. After all, did I not go away with my kids? How is it possible to go on a relaxing vacation with family?
The answer is simple. I did go away with my kids, and yet, the vacation was still relaxing. Here’s why:
1. I had help from my very supportive, hands-on husband for seven days. As a stay-at-home-mom (SAHM), this extra set of hands usually only show up on weekends or when I beckon my mom to come over to help. Also on weekends, when I have my husband’s help with the kids, I’m usually busy doing all of the other stuff I’ve neglected to do during the week like laundry, cleaning and grocery shopping. Which brings me to my next point…
2. I didn’t have to cook or clean for an entire week. Honestly, it’s like a dream come true. Haven’t we all fantasized about a personal chef or house keeper? Not to mention, I didn’t have to eat cheerios for breakfast every day. In fact, I had my choice of omelets, pancakes, french toast, waffles, fruits and a variety of other delicious sides. Gluttony at its best. Did I mention that I never had to clean after myself for my family? How often does that happen? I’ll tell you….NEVER!
3. Sun, Beach & Sand. Three of my favourite things and luckily, my kids love them too. Our days consisted of eating, playing in the water and on the beach, food, naps (for both of us), playing in the pool and more food. Not once were either of my kids bored or did we have to resort to technology for entertainment. I felt like mother of the year on vacation. I truly disconnected and so did my kids. Win-win!
Once we returned home, reality sank in. Twenty loads of laundry, cooking, cleaning, responding to e-mails, my husband going back to work, finding creative ways of entertaining my kids in sub-par weather conditions, etc… I think it’s easy to see why my vacation was in fact relaxing, even though we traveled with our kids.
What’s your take on vacations. Do you find them relaxing or stressful when kids are in tow?
All inclusives are totally relaxing! Pack, fly eat, swim, relax some more…
But we go to Florida every other year (rent a villa) and while it’s fun for us and the kids, it’s not relaxing. It’s like being at home, cooking, cleaning, etc. but in another country and you have to leave the place in better condition than you leave your home.
Sounds like you guys had a great time! I can’t say the same for the time my husband and I took our kids to Cuba. It was rather awful. I think part of it was we got a bad resort. 1/2 under construction; the kids’ club was closed; food supplies were low because it was off-season, etc. It prompted me to make the comment that I will never leave North America with my kids again until they are adults. But your vacation description almost makes me want to go away again…
Yikes! I have to say we’re also not very fond of Cuba for all inclusive, even pre kids. I think that going to a kid friendly resort makes a big difference.
We are looking to take our little one on vacation, he’s 15 mths now. What resort did you stay at?