We recently set off on our first staycation with baby and took off to Ennistymon, Clare.
Although a world apart from our previous "couple hotel breaks" filled with late dinners, wine and spa treatments we found this experience to be really enjoyable and a trip we will always remember.
Here are five reasons breaks away with baby in tow are a great experience:
1) Sleep: Although some would say a holiday with a baby is no holiday at all we found being away with baby actually made us relax. With the housework and daily worries left behind we actually took the time to get some much needed rest in while baby slept. "Sleep while baby sleeps" is well known advice all new parents receive but due to housework, cooking, bottle making, sterilising and generally getting used to the huge adjustment of parenthood this is not something I did too often in those early days. Also if you get the other half to drive the long car journey this gives you and baby plenty of napping time along the way.
2) Childhood: Being away with a baby really brings you back to your childhood. Long walks by the beach, early dinners, sightseeing and treats like Ice-cream all bring those childhood summers flooding back.
3) Making memories: We took the opportunity of booking a hotel with a children's pool and got to experience baby's first swim. A family memory we will always treasure!
4) Bonding: We found being away as a new family really gave us quality time together as a new family and made us appreciate our new addition even more.
5) Energy boost: With the right destination a few nights away with baby can give you a new burst of energy. All new parents know the daily routine of being at home with a new baby can get overwhelming. Yes your following the same routine whilst away but new surroundings and extra walks in during the day all leave you returning home with a renewed sense of energy.
So overall although a totally different experience to our previous trips we found our first family break to be thoroughly enjoyable and the perfect practice run for our summer holiday in which we will take baby to Madeira!
Let’s hope the added pressure of the airport doesn't get to us :)
I'd love to hear your tips!
