Traveling with family ( with parents and kids ) doesn't come easy to us, especially who are used to backpacking. And even it's manageable in domestic travel, it's a Herculean task when it comes to an international voyage because firstly, time is short (the longer the trip, the more expensive it is, so there isn't room for slow travel) secondly, too much to explore ( you want to fully utilize your vacation) and lastly, eating habits of elders and kids are non compliant to local food. However, despite so many obstacles, it's absolutely joyous to explore a new country with the clan. I had travelled extensively with my parents, done 3 countries with them before kids, and Vietnam with both kids. Since Vietnam was quite of a challenge ( the younger one was really little and the dietary struggles were massive), this time we decided on a familiar destination Thailand, which we had explored as a couple 12 years back.

My major concern was that my little one and my mother shouldn't fall sick. They were the most fragile ones in the group. Thankfully, my earnest prayers paid well, as I was able to keep them fine, despite some meltdowns (yes, both of them). Meal times were challenging too, as I had to sacrifice my cravings for local food for Indian cuisine. There are 2 downsides to this. Indian food is overtly expensive abroad and the taste doesn't comply with our usual expectations. Secondly, you miss out the rare opportunity to try local food. However, by the end of the trip, I was able to bring my father (the Indian food loyalist) to fall in love with local Thai food.

So despite innumerable obstacles and my husband going mad at me at several ocassions, I would do this again. Because my parents have taken me to explore uncountable destinations, I would also love to do a bit of that. Secondly, they are not going to remain international travel fit forever, so I would like to take advantage of the ticking clock. Lastly, nothing is more exhilarating than cherishing on the good times spent together, and I know I would be treasuring our group photographs forever.

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