But I need to start here:
why did we collectively decide that traveling with kids has to suck?

Like those are the options. You either stop traveling… or you settle for something that doesn’t feel like you at all. Cruises, overly packaged resorts, rigid schedules no offense, just not my vibe. The idea of a giant floating itinerary with strangers gives me a “mild” panic attack.

And on the other end, most “family travel” content is either depressing and cheap-looking… or so aspirational it’s completely unrealistic.

There’s no middle. And that never made sense to me.

I’ve always loved traveling. Always will. (For context: I asked for a trip instead of a quinceañera.) And having kids wasn’t going to be the thing that ended that , it just meant I had to figure out a different way to do it.

A way that still feels exciting, expansive, and like you… while also being honest about the fact that kids are humans. They get tired, overstimulated, hungry, bored. Their needs aren’t an inconvenience, they’re part of the equation. But that doesn’t mean the trip has to revolve around survival.

It can actually be good. For everyone.

So this is what I’ve been trying to figure out ,and what I wish existed: a way to travel with kids that is thoughtful, realistic, and still feels like a life you actually want to live.

That’s what this is.

Zillion Miles.

A guide to traveling with kids where everyone is happy. No cheesiness, no martyr energy, no pretending it’s impossible. It’s doable. It’s worth it. And it can still feel like you.

Also, I want this to be collaborative. If you’ve taken an amazing trip, are planning one, or want to write a guide to your own city with kids, I want it. DM me or email me at victoria@studiumvdlf.com.

First stop:

CARTAGENA

THE VIBE CHECK

I've been to Cartagena 4 times and it still gets me every time. It's loud, it's hot, it's colorful in a way photos can't capture, and it doesn't slow down for anyone, which is actually the best part. If you're the kind of person who needs a perfectly organized itinerary to feel okay you will have approximately one bad hour before you completely surrender to it; and then you will be fine, better than fine, actually. The food lives up to it. The architecture is stunning.The people are even kinder than you've been told. Go without too much of a plan. That's the whole advice.

HOME BASE (the city)

• Casa Pestagua — two Michelin keys, Relais & Châteaux, 17th century mansion. Honestly, just the most stunning hotel in the city. If this is in your budget, don’t think twice.

• Casa San Agustín — three colonial houses turned into one hotel and somehow it works perfectly. There’s a 300-year-old aqueduct running through the courtyard. You’ll walk in and immediately understand why people are obsessed with Cartagena.

• Casa del Arzobispado — smaller, more intimate, feels like staying somewhere that not everyone knows about. The spa is really, really good. Go even if you’re not staying here.

• La Pasión — rooftop pool that gets sun all day, great location, genuinely good price for what you get. Only eight rooms so it never feels crowded. + its a great deal.

HOME BASE (the islands)

• Las islas: there are a lot of beautiful hotels in the island, that being said i think this is the perfect mix of design and child friendliness. There is an easy-to-access sand beach, golf carts that take you around, and did I mention rooms that are at the very top of trees? Yes, you will freak out as much as the kids. It’s that incredible.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

• Cala Mambo: a private island and every single detail is perfect. Pay the day fee, go with the kids. Amazing food, easy water access, incredible service. Fair warning: you will immediately start planning a trip back here without them.

• La Serrezuela : before it was a mall it was a bullring. Built in the early 1900s, declared a national monument in 1995, and now fully converted into a shopping and dining destination inside the city walls. It's air-conditioned, it's beautiful, and on a day where the heat wins and everyone is melting, this is your move. Malva is here too, which makes the detour even easier to justify. The architecture alone is worth walking through.

• Getsemaní at golden hour: walk the neighborhood before dinner. Street art, fruit vendors, real city life. Kids find it fascinating. You'll find it beautiful. Free, no planning, just go.

KID APPROVED

• The National Aviary at Barú : the Aviario is the sleeper hit of the whole trip and i will stand on that. Everyone skips it because it’s 45 minutes out toward Barú and honestly when Cartagena is right there being that beautiful, 45 minutes feels like a lot. It is not a lot. You walk through this lush tropical forest and suddenly a toucan lands on a branch three feet from your face, and then you turn a corner, and there are flamingos. actual flamingos, so many flamingos, just standing there being pink and absurd and perfect. i completely lost it (the kids will too). Book a private car/boat, not a tour, and on the way back stop at a beach because of course you do.

• The Castillo San Felipe de Barajas: yes its a real fortress. and yes there are hidden tunnels and yes your kids might want to ran off so be careful;. but i swear they will havee so much fun. and maybe you will loose some weight running after them plus the view is pretty enough that is worth it.

  

EAT UP

• Celele: a cultural feast in your mouth. Truly special in a way that’s hard to explain until you’re sitting there. Order the flower salad. Just do it.

• La Cevicheria: a classic, especially for lunch. Fresh, cold, perfect. The kind of place you end up at more than once without planning to.

• La Vitrola: Cuban food, live son cubano music, ceiling fans, the whole thing. It’s been an institution since 1994 and it still earns it. One caveat for this guide specifically: they don’t allow kids under 13 at dinner. File this one under Still You, Though and go on date night with that nanny you booked.

• Juan Del Mar: seafood, live music, tables spilling out onto Plaza San Diego in a restored colonial house. The owner himself usually ends up singing with the band by the end of the night. More about the experience than anything else — and the experience is great.

• Salon Tropical:unfussy, easy, genuinely delicious. It's outside the walled city which makes the walk over part of the fun with kids.

• Las Palenqueras: the women in traditional dress carrying fruit popsicles on their heads are one of the most iconic images of Cartagena. Stop them. Try everything.

• Gia Gelateria: best gelato in town. Non-negotiable stop, especially on the evening walk back.

• La Paletteria: all natural handmade popsicles, they are as pretty as they are delicious.

WHAT TO PACK

SHOP

• Casa Chiqui: if you only manage to escape/ control the kids and go to one store , make it this one.The selection is unlike anything else in the city, the kind of place where you walk in for five minutes and leave an hour later with things you didn’t know you needed. You’ll walk in for five minutes and leave an hour later. Just go.

• St. Dom: Cartagena’s OG concept store. The Latin designer edit here is genuinely good.

• Poppy: a really good curation of local handcrafts. The accessories selection is great, and the bags especially, are worth the stop.

• Malva: concept store, national and international designers. The fact that this exists here tells you everything about where Cartagena is going.

THE CHEAT CODE

• Get a nanny. Yes it’s worth it, and yes it’s needed; even if it’s only so you can go out at night and remember this is your vacation too. Most hotels will arrange a local nanny service. Plan ahead so you’re not stressing about it once you’re there.

• Don’t plan to be outside between 11am and 4 pm. It is THAT hot. This is not a warning, it’s a rule. Which is exactly why having a pool is non-negotiable.

• Rent your own boat. Not optional. The prices are reasonable, and with kids it makes all the difference; they need stops, they need to go at their own pace, and a group tour won’t give you that.

• Do not leave the Rosario Islands after 2pm. The water gets VERY choppy on the way back. Both my kids were so exhausted they passed out, and I’ll be honest, one day I was literally crying the whole ride home. Leave early. Trust me on this one.

• The private island situation in the Rosario Islands is where it is at and not as expensive as you’d think. If you can swing a night or two out there during your trip, do it.

• Cartagena runs late. Restaurants don’t really fill up until 8 pm. With kids, you have a window from 6-7:30pm where you’ll get great service, no crowds, and a table without a reservation almost anywhere. Use it.

• When the heat wins (and it will) head to Andrés Carne de Res inside La Serrezuela. Technically a legendary party spot in Bogotá, but at lunch it's a completely different vibe. The kids will lose it over the dance floor. Ask for the Ilustre experience. You're welcome.

• Taxis don’t use meters , always agree on a price before you get in. With kids and gear you’ll be taking a lot of cabs. Uber is your friend here.

• Cash is still king, especially on the islands and at street stalls. ATMs inside the walls can be scarce. Withdraw before you need it.

THE ACTUAL DAY

7:00 am - Breakfast at the hotel. Go early, go slow. Do not rush this. It’s the only calm moment of your day and you will want to have savored it by 3pm. Feed the kids properly. Coffee. Sunscreen on before you leave the table. You’ll thank yourself. Pro tip: Pack a dry bag with extra clothes, snacks, and a waterproof phone case the night before.

8:45 am — Head to the docks Get there a few minutes before 9. The boats fill up and the earlier you board, the better spot you get. The dock vibe is already chaotic and wonderful , kids will lose their minds just watching the boats.

9:00 am — Island hopping begins The boat takes you through the Rosario Islands. Let the kids sit at the front if the captain allows it, the wind and spray is the whole thing. The ride itself is the activity. Point out the colors of the water changing as you get further out. Pro tip: This is where the piña colada guys appear. They will find you. Yes, they do a kids’ version. Order immediately.

10:00 am – 12:00 pm — The swim stop The guides will take you to a calm, shallow spot, perfect for kids. The water is so clear it almost looks fake. Snorkel gear is usually available on the boat or from guys on the island. Don’t stress about it being “educational.” Just let them swim. This is the memory. Pro tip: bring water shoes, the coral bits underfoot can surprise the little ones..

12:30 pm — Las Islas Hotel. Day pass, beach, lunch, cocktail, repeat. This is your adult moment disguised as a family lunch. Get the day pass. The beach is calm and beautiful, the kids can play in the sand while you actually sit in a chair and drink something cold. When everyone is ready, order lunch. The seafood is the move. Don’t skip dessert. Pro tip: Stake your chairs close to the water so you can see the kids without moving. You’re not getting up.

2:00 pm — Start heading back Begin the return trip. The kids will be sun-drunk and happy. At least one of them will be asleep before the mainland is in sight. The boat ride back feels slower, quieter. Enjoy it. Pro tip: Do not ( I repeat ) do not let them fall fully asleep. A 20-minute boat nap is fine. A deep sleep is bedtime chaos waiting to happen. Keep them just awake enough.

3:30 pm — Back at the hotel. Drop everything, keep moving. Drop the bags, rinse the salt off if needed, change into something light. Do not sit down. Do not turn on the TV. The goal is to keep them in that groggy-but-awake zone until dinner. A walk is the cure.

5:30 pm — La Cevicheria. Light dinner ,while the city wakes up. Go early before the dinner crowd. The ceviche is the whole point ,this isn’t a heavy meal, it’s a refuel. Keep it easy, keep it short. The goal is out before anyone melts down. Pro tip: Reservations are a good idea; it fills up fast, especially on weekends.

7:00 pm — Gia Gelateria. The Reward.Walk to Gia after dinner. This is the part where everyone is happy at the same time, which is rare and beautiful. Get a scoop, walk slowly back through the old city walls. The evening light in Cartagena is genuinely unreal. Let the kids lead the way back.Pro tip: The walk back through the walled city at dusk is the free attraction nobody puts on a list , do it slowly.

8:00 pm — Home. Done. Nailed it. Kids are tired in the right way. You are tired in the right way. That’s a good day.

If you’ve been, drop your tips in the comments: the things you wish you’d known, the spots that made the trip, the restaurant nobody told you about. This guide gets better the more we add to it.

Next stop, soon.

Besos,

Victoria

*Tap the heart (it helps more people find this) — and send it to a friend who’d get it.

1. She makes insanely beautiful jewelry, and

2. She’s fully committed to living her best cowgirl life — boots, barns, breathtaking desert skies.

While the rest of us were crowding into gelato lines in Europe (guilty), Christen was out in the wild — boots on, sunhat packed, living her American cowgirl fantasy. Honestly? Kind of iconic. This is your sign to go west- Take it Away Christen!

This is a love letter to the open road of the American Southwest, loading horses through open meadows of the Eastern Sierras and setting off fireworks in the badlands of Wyoming.

During COVID our family went deep into roadtripping. I refused not to travel even with the limitations of the world, and at that tim,e having a 2 and 4-year-old I was determined to adventure and not lose myself.

Living in the American South West is a dream drive. Expansive blue sky, vast sunsets, and rock formations that Georgia O’Keeffe most likely painted at one time or another.

There is magic on the road. Real explorer moments where you ride a scenic pass with no cars, and you absolutely know that no one in your friend group has ever experienced this same view. We’ve even had donkeys enter our car somewhere in Nevada which is a lifetime highlight.

All of this brings me to experiencing ranches in the West. I know Europe is sexy but have you ever moved cows? There is a ranch experience for everyone.

Places I can vouch for:

Ranch at Rock Creek (Montana)

Experience: This is among the top of the pack in terms of luxury, and that shows in the food, lodging, and very extensive list of possible activities.

Food: Meals are included but culinary multi-course experiences. We did bring my kids here, and they are very accommodating.

Lodging: We stayed in one of the cabins here, which was very well maintained and tastefully ”cabin” designed, if you know what I mean. However, I would love to return in the Summer and try their covered wagon stay because, despite it being a covered wagon its supposed to be a real vibe and quite a luxe stay.

Riding/Activities: Their barn is stunning, and the wranglers were great, but there are honestly so many activities here that I felt riding wasn’t the focus. They also didn’t allow my then 4 and 6-year-olds to ride unassisted, which isn’t terribly unusual for most ranches.

If you are going with a group who aren’t all riders, this could be a great option. Some of the other activities we did were: Fly fishing, target shooting, sapphire mining, and hiking.

Kids: The sitters and kids camp here was excellent. They had outdoor activities or movie and bowling nights if you wanted to enjoy your 5-course meal without smelling chicken tenders next to you.

Special note: If your cabin or stay is not close to the main lodges, they offer bikes as transportation. Keep that aesthetic in mind.

CM Ranch (Wyoming)

Experience: This is an elevated family experience in a stunning setting lined with the Badlands and just outside the adorable town of Dubois. This is a place where many families return the same weekend year after year. It draws a larger crowd from the East Coast than other places I’ve been, thanks to its location, but it would be a great way to experience the dude ranch culture of the West without having to travel so far.

Food: Meals here are still included. Like many places, they have set meal times and you sit at a table with your group in the cabin dining hall. Some of the desserts we had here were epic, and they were very accommodating for allergy needs.

Lodging: Loved these cabins with their epic front porches. More pared down than Ranch at Rock Creek, but also felt way more authentic to the setting. I loved the wood-burning fireplace in the morning and evenings on the porch.

Riding/Activities: Absolutely fantastic riding, helpful wranglers, and well-maintained horses. They offer many different levels of rides. You could easily come here as a beginner and feel like you've got a few skills under your belt. There were days when only my husband and I were on a ride together because we wanted a certain trail, and they assigned us our own wrangler. I will say if you are a rider who has a need for speed and is dying to lope on every ride, this probably isn’t your place. They do offer that, but it’s not a large focus.

They also had amazing fly-fishing and hiking guides who were willing to teach and take out children on these adventures as well.

Kids: Another excellent kids situation. They had their own rides, went on the trail to ‘pan for gold’ in the river. We even had a show of the kids’ radio towards the end of our stay. I will say you should come with kids over 5 then they can participate in the kids’ camp. Otherwise, with younger kids, you’re reliant on sitters, which they do have as well.

Special note: they do offer very fun rides like riding to a location near the Badlands to eat breakfast and all-day rides where you pack out lunch.

Hunewill Ranch (California - Eastern Sierras)

Experience: A place families have visited over and over again for generations. Run by the original Hunewill family and steeped in history.

Food: Like all the other places, you have meal times in a communal setting here. Often, you will sit with two groups together, which I love because it really allows you to get to know other people attending during your week. They were also very accommodating of our gluten sensitivity and made us separate desserts each night.

Lodging: These would be the simplest cabins of the bunch. So cute and clean and tidy, but no frills. You are there to ride, and this is your place to rest. I love that most of their cabins face this giant green where everyone hangs out on their front porch and all the kids meet and play in the grass.

Riding/Activities: Along with CM I feel like their focus on riding shows. They accommodate all levels and offer a variety of rides. I am a girl who loves a job on a horse, so riding through meadows and moving cows is my favorite job. Kids 6+ are able to join the main rides too. By the end of the week, my older one had loped a few times and moved cows. She felt so proud of herself. There is also the element of jumping ditches and streams on these rides through meadows, which is so fun.

Hunewill doesn’t officially offer other activities, but there is amazing fishing in the area, and you can sign up to come with your partner while they ride and you fish.

Kids: This is an excellent place for all ages. They include sitter services for younger children where they have arts and crafts and will usually pony your child at least once a day. My younger one was a part of this program while my older one went out to ride with the larger group. They don’t separate often, and I was a little worried, but she had the absolute best time.

On Christen’s wishlist:

Locations that should be included on this list, but I haven’t personally been to (yet)

Alisal Ranch - Solvang, CA

This luxury ranch is just north of Santa Barbara, so it makes it a popular destination for my other LA ranch lovers. It’s in the same tier as Ranch At Rock Creek. Similar to that high-end ranch, it has many activities like golf, mountain biking, and fishing. Although I have heard great things about their riding. If you’re in the LA area, not sure you want to rough it, but also love wearing a cowboy hat, this could be a great entry. It is on my list to try.

Dutton Hot Springs - Dunton, CO

This stunning remote location would be a dream. It would be a non-kid trip to this location, so I haven’t made it yet. But if you like rustic luxury and epic remote landscapes, please add this to your list.

Next up, I will be visiting BlackBerry Mountain in Walland, TN (IYKYK), which is also in the same category as Alisal and Rock Creek. If you liked this ranch review, feel free to hit me up in November.

Have The Best Day Of Your Life,

Christen

If you can’t get enough of Christen (same), you can find her being effortlessly chic and endlessly sun-kissed here:

→ [Instagram]
→ [Substack]
→ [Her site, aka where your next favorite piece of jewelry lives]

Look, we get it. You're already tired of reading the same painfully obvious advice about traveling with kids: bring snacks, pack wipes, don't forget diapers—groundbreaking stuff, right? Well, this isn't that. Because honestly, if I see another recommendation to "just bring an iPad," I'm going to scream into the void.

Instead, here’s an actually useful, borderline controversial, thoroughly unfiltered survival guide for traveling with kids—crowdsourced from some of the coolest, most well-traveled moms I know (some of whom shall remain unnamed... for obvious reasons). This is the good stuff. The real stuff. The “how are we still alive?” kind of stuff.

SANITY STARTS HERE

• Put on a (mostly) good face

  • "Parents with a positive attitude make all the difference—learn to put a good face on uncomfortable situations.” – Mónica Fonseca

• Accept the travel reality:

  • “Newsflash: your precious routine is officially cancelled. Naps are suggestions, nutritious meals are mythical creatures, and that’s totally fine. Embrace the chaos.” – Camilla Marcus

• Lower expectations:

  • "Lower your expectations.” Those three words have really helped me embrace (and even enjoy) the chaos of family vacations with two under three" –

• No Big Deal No Big Drama:

  • “The key was never making a big deal out of anything. Kids adapt. Start early, teach them to roll with it. They’re resilient—and it sets them up to be confident travelers who can go anywhere, do anything. No fear.”- Linda

• Memory beats reality:

  • “Even if it feels like everything goes horribly wrong…your kids will still make awesome memories. My husband and I look back on some trips in horror. No AC?! Grumpy toddler!! No sleep! But my daughter, even years later, remembers everything from the same trips as amazing and wonderful.”

AIRPLANE & AIRPORT HACKS

Ear Pressure & Feeding

• Warm bottles for takeoff and landing (ask flight attendants early!).

• For older kids, try a lollipop

Packing & Organization

• Personalized packing cubes - Andrea L.

• Minimalism: “Less is always more.”-

• Ship diapers and bulky essentials ahead to your destination - Camilla Marcus

Kid Entertainment (That Actually Works)

• Blue painter’s tape: Endless, quiet entertainment.

• Majo Idea Sets: These save sanity (and marriages).

• “Reusable sticker books, water-drawing pads & for my youngest, I also packed a busy book “ mom of MILKTEETH

• “Water Coloring Books , Sticker Stamper & Puffy Stickers” - Amirah Kaseem

• Montessori Apps: Pok Pok Playroom, Montessori Preschool App, Khan Academy Kids.

• Yoto Player / Tonie Box: Screen-free, sanity-friendly entertainment

• "Lots of snacks. I like to curate a snack box for the plane with many options in it - And then I bring extra snacks for the trip too." Monroe Alvarez

• “Give them a cute backpack—roomy enough for their random treasures but small enough not to become your problem. Let them help pack it too. It gives them a sense of agency and eliminates any future complaints about forgotten stuff. You chose that rock, babe—not me.”- Marissa

TRAVEL MVPs (That Deserve the Overhead Bin)

Sleep Comfort

• Travel Nest Inflatable Cushion - swears by this.

• “There are so many cute little ride-on suitcases now—it’s like giving your kid a toy and a mode of transport. Plus they double as footrests on long-haul flights. Highly recommend.” – Carla

Strollers & a Portable Car Seat

• Single kid: Babyzen YOYO² ( most loved)

• Two kids STROLLER “This was a game-changer for trips in general. We researched lots of umbrella strollers (the travel kind that folds easily) and this had solid reviews. We loved it. Is it perfect? No. But it really helped get two toddlers through many airports and cities, and we kept it in use for ages back home in LA. It also has a car seat adaptor.”

• If your baby is under 18 months, do yourself a favor and choose the Doona—car seat and stroller all in one. It’s heaven-sent. My only complaint? They don’t make a toddler-sized version, and honestly, it breaks my heart.

• “Oh one product I can’t live without now is the WAYB | Re-Certified Pico Portable Car Seat, but you have to get the travel bag, and it’s got so much extra room to stuff in diapers!”- Annie

JET LAG & SLEEP STRATEGIES

– Shift schedules mid-flight:
”Start adjusting sleep and mealtimes on the plane—yes, even if it feels weird. Aligning to the destination ASAP is the best way to avoid zombie children.” - (Amanda)

– Sunlight is your best friend:
The second you land, get outside. Sunlight is nature’s melatonin and helps reset everyone's body clock—yes, even yours.

– Melatonin for kids:
If you’re that parent considering melatonin (hi, same), the move is 0.5 to 1mg about 30 minutes to 2 hours before bedtime. Try it before you travel so you’re not 35,000 feet up managing unexpected chaos.

– Viburcol Natural Suppositories (Europe only):
A magical little secret. Totally natural, calms the nervous system, and helps with sleep. (Not sold in the U.S., so stock up if you're abroad.)

– Time zone who?
For shorter trips (under 5 days), some parents swear by just staying on your home time zone. It’s chaotic but… sometimes less chaotic than trying to reset the whole family clock.

– Dark hotel room = survival:
”Bring blackout shades or even tape aluminum foil to the windows if you have to.”-Chloe

CONTROVERSIAL TRUTHS

Unpopular, But True

• Don’t haul bulky gear
  Borrow or rent car seats and strollers at your destination (Eliana).

• Carry-on only if possible
  And honestly? Life-changing.- Camilla Marcus

• No screens until meltdown
  The iPad isn’t your first line of defense. Use it as the emergency card, not the welcome gift. -Andrea

• Kids don’t care about the itinerary
  Don’t over-plan. One big activity a day, max. Everything else is vibes, snacks, and naps. -Carolina

• New Toys for the plane
  ”Just buy lots of new toys she would love and literally show them all on plane. One by one”– Olga Ianul

• You can skip the travel crib
  Floor beds, hotel couches, or a stack of towels—safe sleep doesn’t always mean lugging your own crib. -Andrea M.

• Skip the red eye unless your kid is a unicorn
  That “they’ll sleep the whole way” dream? For many of us, that’s a lie. Learn from our mistakes.

ELEVATED HACKS

• Book private airport transfers
  Luxury? No. Essential for sanity. -Eliana

• Source trusted nanny services at your destination
  “A night out saves your mental health.” – Monroe Alvarez

• Treat your Airbnb host like a concierge
  Ask them for babysitter recs, restaurant tips, hidden gems—they almost always know what’s good. -Anna M

• “Get on the plane last with the little one (ones) -- my husband gets on first (typically boarding group 1-2) and gets all our bags and gear settled. I then walk on with baby last (group 5) so we have less time to keep her busy and occupied.

  A shift from waiting 45 mins for full plane to board versus 20. Makes a big difference, especially at the baby and toddler stages!”-

• Pack a roll of dog poop bags
  Not just for diapers—wet clothes, snack trash, surprise barf cleanup. Slim, cheap, genius. (A more elevated take on this is these mesh zipper bags)

• Invest in the headphones. Not for them—for you. If they’re comfy, cute, and limit volume, you might just get 20 uninterrupted minutes of peace. Worth every penny.

• Ask for Help: If you need a stranger to lend you a hand, ask, people want to be helpful - Mamala Organics

• “We don’t do iPads at home, so they are novel to them. everyone gets to bring their one plus one book + a stuffy on the plane”- Claire Khodara

• “My number one is to take a hot bath as soon as I get to my destination because my body aches so much and it's really good for the post-flight circulation!!” - Annie

• Airtag the Toddler – “If your kid is anything like mine—aka a professional runner—you need an Airtag. There are cute bracelet options, but I swear by the little ones that clip or stick inside clothes. They can’t rip it off, and you won’t lose your mind every time they disappear behind a suitcase carousel.” – Sabrina

• Make a mini 'calm kit'
  A zip pouch with a tiny sensory toy, lavender balm, a few lollipops & maybe a xanax for yourself? - whatever works.

Got a rogue parenting move that saved your sanity mid-flight? A hack so weird it shouldn’t work—but does? A trick passed down in the group chat that deserves a Nobel?

Drop it in the comments. We’re not here to judge—we’re here to steal each other’s survival tactics.

Besos,

Victoria

If this made you laugh, nod in agreement, or immediately think of someone who needs to read it, go ahead and tap that little heart—it helps more people (including the lurkers) find this.

Oh, and just a heads up: some of these links might earn me a small commission.

For more questionable takes and semi-useful life insights, come hang out on Instagram—follow me @victoriadela_fuente for behind-the-scenes nonsense, and while you’re at it, give Zillion Trillion a follow too. Because let’s be honest—your feed could always use one more mildly chaotic account.

*I literally just spent an hour calling over a dozen hotels in Palm Springs, until I finally found one that will accept my kid, hallelujah. Who knew most hotels there are adult-only?! *

I didn’t realize how hard it would be to find vacation spots that would be kid friendly + we would also enjoy. As I told you before, we are not a big resort/ cruise type of family. Don't get me wrong, beach-only vacations are ALWAYS appreciated, but I can't help but crave a bit of history and discovery. So now what? Are we doomed? I refuse to believe we are condemned to cheesy kid travel destinations only so I've asked 5 of my coolest parent friends to help curate four absolutely fantastic trips. Get ready to get lost in pink sunsets, ride donkeys around town, explore art-filled gardens, find the best shwarma, and discover an attraction park in the middle of Paris.

»»»»

APRIL HENNIG KARRAS

Chief Merchant at Moda Operandi & Mother of Theo 4 and Lulu 6.

Favorite place to travel with kids: 

AH: Greece is my all-time favorite destination. Before we had kids we went regularly, and then once we had kids I was worried it would be a challenging family vacation, especially with travel logistics.  But in actuality, Greece is such a kid-friendly destination, with warm calm waters, an abundance of activities, food options the whole family loves, and even getting between islands by ferry is entertainment in itself. 

Where to stay:

AH: No matter where you are going in Greece, you most likely need to stop in Athens first. Most people don't realize, but the coast of Athens (the Athens Riviera), is a beautiful and vibrant alternative to staying in the heart of the city. A couple of years back, The Four Seasons opened in Vouliagmeni, which is just 30 minutes south of the Acropolis. Sitting on its own peninsula, the resort has a number of pools and a secluded beach, and is directly next to the famous Astir Beach Club. It's the ultimate seaside experience. Alternatively, you could venture a little further south and stay at the Cape Sounio Grecotel, where you have direct views of the historic Temple of Poseidon, and has its own kids club and discovery center loaded with activities for younger and older kids. Our favorite island destination is Hydra, a quick ferry away. There we stay at the Bratsera Hotel, a converted old sponge factory with charming rooms and a small pool. 

Top things to do:

AH: Hydra is a hidden gem within the Saronic Islands, and is car-free, with donkeys being the main form of transportation. Everything is within walking distance and the kids can roam free on the cobblestone streets and hidden coastal pathways. (Note to parents - you want to pack light, and this isn't an island for pushing strollers!) There are a few different beaches to spend the day at, most of which are reached by taxi. Our kids loved riding donkeys around the island, exploring monasteries and beautiful hillsides. In town, there are shops, candy stores, and so many family-friendly tavernas, serving fresh food right from the sea. After donkeys, the local cats are the most characteristic animal on the island. Kids can find them everywhere, on the steps and down every alleyway, and they are incredibly friendly! Like everywhere in Greece, everything is open late, and kids are playing in the streets until the late hours of sundown. 

Where to eat:

AH: My absolute favorite spot to eat in Hydra is Kodylenia's Taverna, which is a short boat ride over to the old fishing port of Kamini, and then a 5-minute climb up a stone pathway. The owner Dimitris has been running it for 25 years. If you go for dinner, you will witness a breathtaking sunset, with a magical ocean view of distant mountaintops, and a harbor dotted with wooden fishing boats. The setting is informal and the food is well-priced, serving locally caught fish and all the Mediterranean classics. 

Must-Haves:

AH: A piece of evil eye jewelry from Elena Votsi, who has her local shop and studio in the center of Hydra port. 

A stuffed donkey souvenir for the kids, which they keep in their bedrooms to remember the trip. 

In Athens, I always stop at The Poet, for a pair of handmade leather sandals. His workshop has been there for almost 100 years, and the 3rd generation owner cuts the leather and custom fits them on your feet in front of you in the design of your choice.

VICTORIA LAMPLEY

Founder of THE STAX & Mother to Rex 5 and Staxy 3.

Favorite place to travel with kids:

VL: Apart from traveling to Long Island or Jupiter to stay with my in-laws and see my family, I absolutely love traveling to Ojai to get away from the LA Smog and drive straight into the scent of citrus blossoms and jasmine. It's a small town with a big heart and I love the energy there. There is no Starbucks (don't get me wrong I love an iced americano on the reg) or honking horns or city-slickers running you off the road. 

Where to stay:

VL: Ojai Valley Inn. I used to stay at the most amazing house, belonging to my beloved friends but they've since sold it .

Top things to do:

VL: In my daily life I often attempt to do too much, so part of the beauty of Ojai is settling into the surroundings and letting go of overscheduled days... Trying to put my phone under a pillow... Long meals with the kids, lots of running around on the grass and golf courses with the kids and our pup Zelda, long languid (and insanely noisy) afternoons by the pool or walks around town, and in the evening we like to take the kids out and experience "the pink moment"--a rare and magical moment that occurs as the fading sunset creates a brilliant shade of pink on the Mountains... It's really extraordinary. 

Where to eat:

VL: I love a long breakfast, so we usually venture to the Farmer and the Cook on the Edge of Town for the best Persimmon smoothies and organic Mexican breakfast dishes. For lunch, we often run back and sit by the pool with the kids for the works (rose on ice and hummus crudite for yours truly,  and a grilled cheese and fries for the kids with a carrot thrown in for good effort!), for dinner, I'm super excited to try Rory's Place, and our go-to in the past has been The Nest for delicious Cauliflower Tacos, cocktails, and the dough-iest dankest pizza! It's super kid friendly and has great vibes, and if we're feeling confident we'll try and sit for a "fancier" dinner back at The Oak, they illuminate the trees with hanging lanterns which makes for a pretty epic view. 

Must-Haves:

VL: I always bring my handmade Alix of Bohemia jackets, shirts, and dresses with me, basically my uniform for holiday and adventure... She's one of my best friends who happens to be one of my style muses/favorite designers...I also never leave the house, especially since the evenings can be so chilly in California, without my hand-embroidered cashmere Holy Goat shawls available via Debonnaire in London, my Mother in law gets me them for special occasions and I'm obsessed.  

For the kids, I pack a ton of this sunscreen, lots of cute easy lightweight hand-printed outfits by Ya Living and Milk Teeth, lots of separates to run amok in by Primary, a medley of jelly Mary-Janes for my daughter, pokemon crocs for my son, this magic drawing tablet for both kids for the car ride, my kids literally pack their stuffies in little suitcases--this particular one makes me very happy for obvious reasons, and let's not forget their obsession with Squishmallows... For long dry and sunny days their little cheeks get chapped so I always carry Ouli's Ointment balm with me, or a new go-to of mine Yassi's Butta. 

I also throw all my Mom-essentials in my Jasmine Shokrian Mini Aeki Bag so there's a flash of style hiding my hoarding...And lastly, I'm super superstitious and never leave on a trip without some of my favorite protective jewelry (check out The Stax) like my CAM Studio custom tsavorite rock pendant, my Sherman Field chrysoprase locket, my Rondel Magic Mushroom rainbow opal charm, my Daniela Villegas lovebug pinky ring, my Jenna Katz hand-engraved Canvas Coin with my son's hand-engraved note to me (a genius gift from my pal Laurel Pantin), and my friendship bangles with my Mother, vintage Tiffany & Co bangles in rose and yellow gold.

AJIRI AKI

Author of JOIE, Founder of Madame de la Maison, & Mother of Noomie 10 and Baz 6

Favorite place to travel with kids:

AA: It’s a big area but for us, hands down the South of France! I love how close we are to fields to run in one direction, mountains for hikes in another direction, and the ocean in another direction. Everything is there.

Where to stay:

AA: We like to get Airbnbs with a pool and a garden so we can swim at home in the mornings and evenings, but a recent hotel we stayed in that we plan to return to was Le Bailli de Suffren. I love that you can move from the pool hotel to the private beach and rent canoes.  

Top things to do:

AA: If you stay closer to Aix-en-Provence then take the family to run wild and free at Chateau Lacoste. If you had closer to the Cote d’Azur then beach days and boat trips are the things to do.

Where to eat:

AA: I love the restaurants at the Hotel Le Bailli de Suffren and the Francis Maman restaurant at Chateau Lacoste.

Must-Haves:

AA: Biotherm dry touch SPF 50 sunscreen because it’s crazy sunny in the south, hats that tie under the chin because nothing worse than losing your hat when a gust of wind blows through, and a foldable sand bucket and shovel.   

BRENDA DIAZ DE LA VEGA

Luxury and Fashion Brand Consultant & Mother of Laszlo 3.

Favorite place to travel with kids:

BD: This may seem counterintuitive and undeniably self-serving but my favorite place to travel with kids is Paris. It is surprisingly filled with wonderful things to do for small children and there is something extraordinary about rediscovering a city that I have been visiting regularly as an adult for the past two decades through the eyes of a three-year-old.  

Where to stay:

BD: Last time we went we split the time between my husband’s family’s place and Hotel Lutetia. They had the cutest mini slippers and mini bathrobe for my son and gave him a “Le Petit Prince” set of coloring books, pencils, and toiletries. He was thrilled and felt important wearing the same robe and slippers as his father.

Top things to do:

BD: The LudoJardin in the Luxembourg Garden is an all-wooden playground like you’ve never seen: lady-bug and bumble-bee spring riders, a giant sand pit with a digging platform, and buckets on movable chains for sand collecting, maze sculpture, timber fort area with slide, zip line that runs between the trees, seesaws, magic mirrors, you get the picture. Outside the LudoJardin in the main area, there is also a carousel and pony rides.

Another unmissable spot is LVMH’s Jardin d’Acclimation behind the Fondation Vuitton in the Bois de Boulogne. It was created in 1860 by Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugenie, inspired by Hyde Park. It was acquired by Arnault and fully remodeled in 2018 conserving its charming 19th-century style. It has a farm, an aviary with over 400 species, 42 rides, and attractions, and many cute restaurants and trails for walking. Combined with a quick visit to the Fondation Vuitton, it’s the perfect day of culture, nature, and fun for both parents and children.

A visit to famous taxidermist and entomologist Deyrolle in Rue de Bac is a great pedagogical activity for kids. They will be fascinated by the collection of insects, animals, fossils, and other curiosities. Émile Deyrolle famously said, “Visual instruction is the least tiring for the mind, but this education can have good results only if the ideas engraved in the children’s mind are rigorously exact.” 

*It is important to mention that no animal was killed to be mounted at Deyrolle: the non-domestic species come from zoos and parks where they died of old age or illness. They are traceable, and protected species are held and delivered in accordance with CITES.

Other favorites are the Tuileries Gardens and fair, the Ménagerie at the Jardins des Plantes, the Museum of Natural History, Van Buren’s Columns at Palais Royal, the toy store at Le Bon Marché, Parc Monceau, among many others. 

Where to eat:

BD: Something I love about French upbringing is that children and adults eat alike. There are no “kids menus”, saving your child from the dreary recurring “chicken fingers and fries” diet. I love a kid who appreciates a ripe bleu or brie. 

Le Récamier is a little gem in the 7th arrondissement that serves the best cheese and chocolate soufflés which will delight both parents and children. 

No trip to Paris is complete without eating a crêpe beurre-sucre at any street stand and a tall glass of creme chantilly with fraises des bois - a miniature strawberry with exponential flavor.

Must-Have’s :

BD: France passed a law that protects independent bookstores as part of their “exception culturelle” or cultural exception, which is a trade practice meant to treat culture differently from other commercial products, with the government going as far as urging people not to buy books online. So unlike other parts of the world where bookstores are a rare sighting, in France, bookshops are a thriving business with one on almost every block. I love spending time in them and most have wonderful kids sections. My son’s favorites are the illustrated audiobook collection from Gründ each featuring music from a different composer, ie Beethoven, Mozart, Bach, etc.

I love French children's clothing brands so every visit requires a stop to Petit Bateau, Jacadi, Natalys, Tartine et Chocolat (and if it’s sale season, Bonpoint!)

AMIR SIMKHAI

Founder of MINTY & Father to Mia & Adam 8, and Michael & Alex 5.

Favorite place to travel with kids:

AS:  In the summertime, I take my kids to Israel. It’s honestly one of the most child-friendly places to travel to, as there as adult-only places are frowned upon. They attend Israeli camps alongside native Israeli children ( highly recommend the Hilton Bay surf camp, the kids LOVED it). My goal is for them to establish a connection to Israeli culture, lifestyle, and language. I have a ritual of picking them up at 4:30 from camp and bringing them back to the house to have a snack and enjoy some A/C. Then around 6, we would head to the beach for an hour and a half before sunset and on the walk back get dinner someplace quick and fun.

Where do you stay? 

AS: If you want to go the fancy route The Carlton and The Norman are the way to go. Since we are a numerous family it’s more realistic for us to sublease a place somewhere near Dizengoff and Ben Yehuda Streets in Tel Aviv. This area will always be within walking distance of the beach, as well as various restaurants and cafes- which makes it extra easy trying to rally 4 kids.

Top things to do:

AS: There is so much to do! You can go the touristy route and take the kids to swim in the Dead Sea, check out local food at Machne Yehuda, day trips to Jerusalem, and snorkel at the Dolphin Reef in Eilat. Activities can get to be a bit much especially with 4 kids, so when in doubt just go to the Beach, pool, and more beach.

Where to eat :

AS: Israel has THE best food, so we definitely indulge. Some of our favorite restaurants are Santa Katarina, Santi + Yashka for the best shwarma. When I'm with my kids and we want to go casual, we like to visit Barbunia to indulge in freshly caught seafood. It's a well-known restaurant popular and owned by a fisherman.

Must-Haves:

AS: It’s a bit of a tradition by now, every year when we are in Israel I get them each a new pair of Freedom Moses sandals. The colors and prints are super fun, and most importantly they are almost blister-proof. I don’t want to be a cliche but I don’t think we could do such a long trip with our IPADS. My kids didn’t have them until we started traveling again, but at the end of the day, they are great for the plane and long car drives + a much-deserved relaxing time in the A/C during the hot Sumer afternoons. Another must for any summer trip are Minty Bracelets, we just launched a green one in collaboration with Moda Operandi and I can’t stop wearing it. They feel like summer candy and dress up my otherwise casual style while on vacation. Last but not least, Israel is my second favorite place to buy kids’ clothes after France. They have some amazing fashion brands such as Nununu, Castro kids, and No Biggie. I like to stock up on warm-weather clothes for the kid when I am there. Especially spring and summer dresses for my girl, Mia.

Just curious, what are your favorite family-friendly travel spots? Do tell.

Besos,

Victoria