So in a week's time the Reindl clan will be headed overseas for our first international family holiday. This in itself can be quite daunting but even more so when you're headed for a third world country. We're heading to bali which most would argue is not a third world country but when you think about all the factors within the country that can harm an infant- the uncleanliness, rarity of our most common necessities, diseases and how many foods (not to mention any water other bottled) can make adults, let alone children and infants, very sick. It's easy to see why a mumma might be a bit anxious to take this holiday.
The other Reindl mummy's including nana Reindl have all taken their kids/ babies to bali and have assured me that providing we take the appropriate precautions it is completely safe. The following are the tips that other Reindl mummy's and my mums of Instagram have given me;
- Must have items to take with you include a lightweight umbrella stroller, a plentiful supply of your baby's favored nappies, wipes, formula and baby food, any 'just in case' medications like panadol and a huge supply of liquid hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes.
- DO NOT drink tap water, be careful not to get any up your nose, or in your eyes or nose when showering. Remember to use bottled water for EVERYTHING; washing your face, brushing your teeth and making baby's bottle of milk. I will say pool water is fine because of all the chemicals, all the nastiness is gotten rid of, also majority of establishments use filtered water ice cubes,so your drinks should be safe
- stick to your hotels advised private driver or bluebird taxi's and ensure the taxi's meter gets used
- cover yourself in insect repellent and used mosquito nets over the beds and cot's if available.
- Also remember just how close to the equator indonesia is, even when its 5pm, those harmful sun rays are still gonna get you. Keep in mind all your sunsmart knowledge. Hats, 30+ or 50+ spf suncream, sunglasses, shade and light cotton long sleves are going to be your best friend in the scorching sun
- get a comprehensive travel insurance policy and remember to check whats covered.
- keep 200, 000 IDR per person set aside to pay your departure tax when vacation time is over or you'll be unable to leave the country. Nana Reindl gave me the hint that on your first day when you exchange your currency set aside your exit funds and hide them away with your important documents ready for when you make your way back to the airport.
- take some form of probiotic in the lead up and while you're away. most people have heard of bali belly, and no one really enjoys it. having 5 seconds notice to get to a bathroom before you have an unfortunate accident leaking down your leg in definitely not my idea of a great time.
- one of the perks of the kuta/legian area (where we will be staying) is that everything is within a reasonable walking distance so ensure you have comfortable walking shoes and a large water bottle.
- Plane rides with kids. Need i say more? For kids 7+ i'd suggest pack a few snacks, a drink, some headphones and a tablet. kids 3-6yrs an extensive activity pack is my go to. we all know how quickly their attention shifts so for lexi i've packed books, games (sight word bingo, tic tac, toe, etc) puzzles, headphones and a tablet with movies pre-loaded onto it, snacks and water bottle. For infants 6 months to 2 years a tablet with a favourite movie or some episodes of a tv show they like, snacks and drinks, stickers, board books, and perhaps a quiet book like this one from "Always Sewin Somethin"
Being a virgo means i'm a list person so I've written three holiday checklists to getting ready for this trip; a packing list colour coded with carry on/ check in, a pet sitter care plan and a before we go checklist. I've pinned similar articles on my holiday/vacation board from ever in transit, family travel magazine, our little house in the country and house mix.
So my next step is to follow through with all the lists and be ready for our first overseas family vacation!!!
