Tips for travelers

Beach
• When you are on the beach follow the rules and regulations posted. Keep children under control for the comfort of other guests and for their safety. Bring along beverages, sunscreen and snacks for the children. If you have children you may want to ensure there is a lifeguard on duty;
• Check to see if there are restroom facilities;
• When the weather is extremely hot be sure that you do not over expose your children to the punishing rays of the sun;
• Don’t rely solely on the lifeguard to keep your children safe. Always keep your eyes open when you have children playing in the water.

Ski Trips
• Ski resorts are a great way for the family to spend quality time together. They are typically less crowded than beach destinations ;
• Take advantage of professional instruction for your children so that they learn how to use the ski equipment. Your children’s safety should be your top priority.

Disney Parks, SeaWorld and Other Attractions
• To avoid the crowds try and arrive early before the attraction or park opens. Another good time to visit is after the dinner hour;
• September and October are not the peak season for vacationers and is a good time to visit, so try and plan your vacation accordingly;
• Be prepared to wait in line for some popular attractions. Bring along something to keep the children busy to keep them from getting restless.

At The Hotel
• There may be children’s activities offered at your hotel. Check to see if they require advance registration. Keep in mind that resorts that are family-friendly may be crowded during peak season which is typically during the summer months;
• For those on a budget, check a number of hotels that offer complimentary amenities such as internet connection or transportation to and from the hotel and other attractions. Try and stay in a hotel that offers children free with paying adult. Some hotels may offer discounts for city attractions as well;
• If you will need a cot or a crib, be sure that you request it before you arrive at the hotel.

Car Rental
• For those traveling with children, check with the car rental company to see if they provide car seats for the children.

Road Trips
• On long trips never drive when you are feeling drowsy or tired;
• When traveling with children, stop frequently so that your children can stretch their legs and take breaks to go to the restroom.

Air Travel
• Give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport before your flight is due to leave. Baggage and security checks may take some time. This is especially true during holidays and peak season;
• For international flights be prepared to wait up to several hours for your connecting flight if it is not non-stop. Bring along toys and personal hygiene items for the children so that they stay calm. When traveling with children under the age of 18, you will be facing particular requirements depending upon which country you are coming from and traveling to;
• Check the requirements when you are applying for a passport for a child under the age of 16. You can check the official website for specific requirements of the country on which you are planning to visit;
• Check to see if you will need passports and visas as some countries allow for visa free travel for citizens of specific countries;
• Be sure you find out if there are any medical requirements for the country to which you are traveling;
• If your visa or passport is stolen or lost contact your country’s embassy for help;
• If you are carrying cosmetics, lotions or any medications, keep them handy for inspection by security;
• Before you leave for the airport, call the airlines to see if your flight will be leaving on time. Leave extra time to get to the airport if you are traveling during rush hour.

General
• Hotels often offer accommodations at deeply discounted prices in the off season. Try and avoid traveling during holidays so you can save money;
• Most cities have a museum specifically for children. Find out the hours, fees and directions to the museum before you arrive;
• Be sure you read the hotel description on ODISSIA.com so you can ensure that your hotel has all the amenities you expect and require;
• If the city to which you are traveling offers a free or paid tour of the area, take advantage of this type of offer so you can familiarize yourself with everything the city has to offer;
• Try and bring along everything you will need as buying necessities can cost you big.