TRAVELING WITH FAMILY
MY PRACTICAL ADVICE
What an adventure!
Traveling with your family can be an enriching and memorable experience, especially in Vendée, where there is no shortage of activities for young and old. To ensure your stay goes smoothly and that each member of the family enjoys it to the fullest, here are some practical tips.
Choosing the right accommodation
No!! I don't insist on this subject JUST because I manage gîtes in Vendée!! :D
But because we travel a lot, with our young children, in France and abroad, and I assure you that good accommodation can make the difference between a mediocre trip and a memorable adventure!
Selecting accommodation adapted to the needs of your family is essential. Our gîtes, located in different strategic locations in Vendée, are perfect for families. They offer spacious spaces, fully equipped kitchens to prepare your meals, and secure gardens so that children can play in peace. Unlike a hotel, our holiday homes allow greater flexibility and comfort. You will say that I repeat myself but after about fifteen trips with our children, good accommodation makes all the difference for the children but ABOVE ALL, for you parent... who needs these holidays!!
Plan your activities in advance
And yet... I am a very bad student on this subject (but as we say in our country, do what I say... not what I do!!) I travel on feeling, day by day, without booking anything. Unfortunately, this also prevented me from being able to access certain activities and visits, showing "full" when I arrived on site! The Vendée is full of family activities. From amusement parks like Puy du Fou, to zoos and aquariums, there is something for everyone. Plan your visits in advance to avoid queues and take advantage of reduced rates online.
Travel light but prepared
Traveling with children requires careful organization of your luggage. Depending on the season, plan clothes adapted to the Vendée climate, sunscreen, hats, and swimsuits. Don't forget a little sweater, even in the middle of summer, the wind is sometimes cool on the coast. Don't forget to bring games and activities to keep the children busy during transport or rest times. Our lodgings are equipped with washing machines. Take advantage of this to only take half the necessary clothes and take the time to do a little washing in the living room! Your bags will be two fewer!
Adjust the pace
Children need regular breaks and rest time. Adjust your schedule accordingly. Prioritize activities in the morning and late afternoon, and reserve the hottest hours of the day for naps or quiet activities in the shade. Don't hesitate to use the stroller (cane from 3 years old, it is lighter and more practical!) or the baby carrier. For our youngest, 4 years old, we opted for the ling ling d'amour P4 Preschool from Naturioù, it is super light to carry, and super practical to help carry a child! It allowed us to enjoy a 3-hour hike in Guadeloupe! The sea air and the heat can tire your child. We always make sure to bring a banana or other fruit to give our little ones a boost as soon as they get tired!