Vacationing Without Your Child {And Why It’s Ok to Not Feel Guilty}
I’m writing this as I ride on a train from Strasbourg to Paris, France toward the end of a 10-day European holiday with my husband’s family. It’s been a wonderful vacation with the usual challenges that come with being in a different country – time change; cultural differences in food, language, and money; adapters and converters for electronic plug-ins; and unique, old buildings that will never be modernized for convenience. One challenge that has not been a problem for us on this trip is our three-year-old toddler. Why? Because she is back in the states with her uncle, aunt and paw-paw.
I Know It’s Not for Everyone
I once heard the phrase “vacations with a small child aren’t vacations, it’s just taking care of your child in a different location” which I never understood until having a child of my own. My husband has begrudgingly added “And without all of their stuff” which is so true. Traveling is stressful enough but depending on the age of your child and what the destination is, it can pose its own set of additional challenges and issues. That’s not to say you can’t take your children with you (It’s very possible!), but it’s ok to travel alone every now and then if you choose to do so. You can thank me later!
I remember going to the beach with our seven-week-old because I couldn’t fathom missing a family trip. It was nothing I would recall as a vacation. I don’t regret doing it, but it was harder than I could have ever imagined and not relaxing in the least! We lived through it and moved on, but some things just stick with you.
Take the Plunge
Don’t get me wrong, we take family vacations with our daughter (she has her own passport!) and love every minute of it but there are some vacations that just may not be worth the hassle to try to bring kids along. That’s OK! Part of self-care, especially for a mom and parent, can be in the form of a childless vacation. Alone time with your spouse is important as well. It’s ok to be a little selfish sometimes. Leaving your child with family or someone you trust is a big part of the decision and can definitely help ease your nerves.
So, the next time you’re considering a vacation sans kids, do it confidently and seize the opportunity. You might surprise yourself. Besides, if there is a little guilt, that’s what video calls are for!
