Notes From My Travel Diary

I have been time and again asked by people how I do it? Yes, unlike other travellers, I being a mom to two young kids travel extensively. Now this might be a regular thing in some countries but in India, I am given the brows, the scorn and the sighs and while some may pass judgment a lot of you want to know how I do it.

Confession.

I have always believed in pursuing my passions and while I make sure my kids and my home is always my priority, I need to keep them alive to be sane and happy. I have seen many examples of women (family and friends) go through depression by suppressing their desires and that scares me. So honestly if travel gives me a short escape and a breather from my demanding life, I chose it. As we grow older and especially if we are not working, we will start feeling a void in our lives, as husbands will climb the corporate ladder and will have less and less time for us. Kids will grow up and have an independent life and we will not know what to do with all the free time. So it’s important to find that thing that drives the passion in you. For me it’s travel, it fuels me for you, it could be something entirely different.

Toil.

By extensive planning. I plan all my holidays at the beginning of the year. I sit down aligning the holiday list of my husband and my kids, identify overlaps. If there are holidays that I need to take on my own or as a couple then we check with my parents on their availability as I realise they are my only support that I can trust. They, of course, need help so make sure I have help in the house and my nannies are there too. Teachers are sent notes before I leave, all groceries are bought and kept. Flight tickets and accommodations are booked way in advance. So yes basically, while it may look effortless to others, it is actually extensive planning.

Dilemma.

I would be lying if I say, it doesn’t. Of course, my kids miss me and my household goes a little haywire, but the earth doesn’t part and no we don’t experience earthquakes :). The first time was the most difficult as I heard no end from my parents and in-laws. My kiddo was absolutely fine though, all he cared was about the toys I had promised him. The second time we traveled without kids was when my younger one was just 2.5 years and that was a bit tough on him, but it was our 10th wedding anniversary and we really wanted to be on our own. He had major separation anxiety for the next few months and then we decided to travel keeping him in the loop and explaining him. He coped better the next time and it has only been better. My kids and my parents are more open to the concept and they are slowly getting independent not only in their thoughts but in their action too. Unlike what you may think I miss my kids and home as soon as I cross a week of travel.

Passion.

So that you know if you do want to head out for even a mini vacation without your kids or your hubby, it’s not going to be the end of the world. When the going gets tough we all need a break, so don’t be shy to take that break. A rejuvenated you, a happy you will be able to deal with home, kids and life, so go ahead just take that break, life is too short for regrets :)!