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Family holiday survival
Whether you love 'em or hate 'em, at some point in our lives most of us experience the family holiday.
To get through all that quality family time and the sight of your dad in Speedos, here are a few handy family holiday tips:
Before you go:
Research -
If your parents are the type to just go off and book something, then help them out by researching popular holiday destinations. This way, you’re going to have a say in where you go and you help your parents, so everyone’s happy! You should also research the culture and political climate of any potential destinations, which helps in picking a suitable holiday. Learning a few words and phrases in the language, like ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ can always help, and make for a bit of fun with locals.
Packing -
Yep, the bane of every holidaymaker’s plans! Do yourself a favour and pack only the essentials. If you really can’t live without all your make-up or game-boy stuff, then invest in one of those wheelie-suitcases. Pack well in advance to be sure you have everything you need. If you’re planning on buying a lot of souvenirs, bring a small empty bag with you, so you have enough space on return. Us Irish are known for our shiny red shoulders, so pack some good quality sun-cream too!
Your phone -
If you want to be able to text your friends while you’re away, head into your local phone shop to find out how to work your phone abroad and how much calling or texting will cost.
During the flight:
Entertainment -
Flights can be long and tedious, especially without something to do, so bring a book or two, mp3, Suduko or whatever will keep you sane. If the flight is going to be really long, mini board games are always an option, and will keep younger brothers and sisters amused as well.
The nightmare passenger -
If you’re unfortunate enough to be sitting beside someone who wants to tell you all about their dysfunctional pancreas, your best bet is to buy a pair of earphones and just watch the movie.
Water -
Flying can make you very dehydrated, due to the air pressure so be sure to drink water or fruit juices during the flight. Try not to drink so much tea or coffee, as these are diuretics and make you lose water. Fainting is not a good start to any holiday!
On Holiday:
Split up -
When exploring, split the family in two (never leaving one person on their own) head off and arrange to meet somewhere at a certain time. This way, you don’t get fed up with each other and have discovered loads of different areas.
Socialise -
By just starting up a simple conversation by the pool, you can meet great people, have loads of fun and return home with mad stories! Who knows, you could make some friends for life. And don’t forget the camera, pictures are great fun to look back on once the holiday is over.
Bargain shopping -
When buying presents or souvenirs, check out the quality of the products. Try to avoid buying jewellery and watches, as you can’t go back to the shop if they break. Bargaining over prices can be fun, but if you feel the end price is too much, remember you don’t have to buy it.
And last of all, to have a great holiday, go with your eyes open and a big sense of fun!!
Benefits of Family Holidays:
It’s not all terrible y’know! Family holidays can be great fun. You and your siblings are more likely to be able to participate in fun activities, have more freedom to stay out later than usual and thus are generally bound to feel more relaxed.
By: Tara McGarrigle
