If you’re looking for a fun family activity in Perth…

then you can’t go past a mini-golf range!

If you’re looking for a fun family activity to enjoy on your next holiday to the Perth region, then you can’t go past a few hours spent at a mini-golf range. Kids from a young age can enjoy trying their hand at this pursuit and parents and teenagers can have fun competing on shots or just enjoying the merriment of the locations. If you’re getting ready to choose a hotel in Perth and are looking for some entertaining courses to try out, then read on for five of the best options around the capital city.

The Maze Family Fun Park

Located in the outer suburb of Bullsbrook (around 45 minutes from the CBD) The Maze Family Fun Park is the self-proclaimed “funnest family day out” in the region. The venue is home to nine holes of mini-golf that incorporate twists, turns and various obstacles for players to overcome. The mini-golf course is set in a shady landscaped garden setting and is suitable for children from a young age. While visiting the Fun Park families can also enjoy myriad other activities. Kids will love challenging themselves in the variety of mazes or by playing a game of garden chess. There is also a massive new waterslide playground (one of the largest in Australia), a giant jumping pillow, a native bird aviary, a multi-level children’s climbing and play structure, and an animal enclosure. Once all the fun has been had families can enjoy some rest time with a picnic under the shady trees around the property by purchasing meals from the on-site cafe.

Oasis Supa Golf and Adventure Putt Miniature Golf

Located in the Swan Valley outside of Perth, the Oasis venue was created as a means of bringing a quality course with a difference to the region. The Adventure Putt mini-golf course is based on the Adventure Golf design (essentially a normal golf course scaled down to a miniature size). The mini-golf course at Oasis is set amongst serene gardens and plentiful water features and utilises many earthy materials and colours to help create an even more calming atmosphere. The course features 18 holes that have bunkers, streams and water traps and is set on one acre of land. It is perfect for children from the age of two years and up and takes around one hour to complete. In addition to the mini-golf course, the Oasis is home to one of the world’s first 18-hole Supa Golf courses. Supa Golf is a modified form of golf where the clubs used have oversized heads and are made of plastic; the ball is soft, oversized and made of rubber; and the putting cup size is approximately 2.5 times larger than in traditional golf. This course is easier to play than standard golf and as a result is suitable for children aged six years and up.

Wanneroo Botanical Gardens and Botanic Golf

Located in the suburb of Wanneroo (about 25 minutes from the city), this is another mini-golf course that is a pleasure for the senses. Set in a tropical botanical garden and providing two courses for patrons to play on, the venue is perfect for a family day out. The Botanic Golf course covers five acres of gardens and takes around 1.5 hours to complete at a leisurely pace. Visitors can also enjoy a game of night mini-golf in the summer months, or some time out at the on-site cafe.

Abingdon Miniature Village and Mini-Golf

Situated in Barragup, south of Mandurah, the Abingdon Miniature Village and Mini-Golf site is well worth a visit. Children of all ages can have fun playing on the 12-hole mini-golf course that is relatively small but perfect for younger children. After the game families can also take some time to explore the displays in the Miniature Village, challenge themselves in the various mazes, wander the beautiful gardens and relax in the on-site tea room.

King Carnival

King Carnival is one of the oldest amusement venues in Western Australia and is located on the Mandurah Estuary. The on-site 18-hole mini-golf course is rated as one of the top five in the country and is surrounded by a plethora of greenery, streams, a waterfall and a pond. Visitors to King Carnival can also be entertained on the variety of rides such as the Ferris wheel, carousel, dodgem cars, mini-quad bikes, trains and a slide.

About the Author: Ali Wentworth is a Perth-based travel writer and parent who loves exploring the latest and greatest child-friendly venues around Australia with her family.

When you’re a kid, everything is new and exciting…

…this can make for easy overseas holiday entertainment!

When you’re a kid, everything is new and exciting. This can make for easy overseas holiday entertainment. A fun idea is to spend some time with your son or daughter and devise a holiday wish list. That way, every time you travel together as a family, your child has something to work towards – and everyday becomes an educational adventure.

To make it more visual, you could start a wish-list scrapbook and document every time a wish comes true. For older children, a travel blog is another possibility, where they can write about their experiences, share photos and posts with their friends online. In terms of what to put on the list, anything goes, but the following are a couple of ideas to get you started.

Fly in a Jumbo Jet

One of the first things to consider when making your holiday wish list is taking a flight on a jumbo jet. For kids who have never flown on a plane before, this is one of the best parts of travelling! It’s also great for parents, as it can distract from the boredom, discomfort and restlessness that sometimes comes with flying.

earn a Few Phrases in a New Language

Kids wrap their heads around foreign languages faster than adults do and usually have no shame in practising their new lingo. Instilling an interest in language in your kids is a great achievement. It gives them an appreciation for other cultures and the ways in which they communicate. You never know; you could also be opening up a door for them to make new friends.

Eat Some Weird and Wonderful Food

Turn eating into an adventure with weird and wonderful specialties from wherever you end up. You could eat Huhu grubs in New Zealand, dine on deep-fried tarantula in Cambodia, sample smelly durian fruit in China or try stinky cheese in Italy. Your kids will be delighted by the grossness of it all.

Make a Friend From a Different Culture

Being accepting of and open to all kinds of people is one of the best characteristics your child can have. Having friends from around the world is a great way to broaden young minds, as well as having the benefit of keeping them entertained while you’re away on holiday.

Learn 10 New Facts About Each Different Country

Every time you go to a new place, challenge your child to learn ten new facts about it, and then present them back to you. It’s a great way to learn about new countries and cultures, and is much more exciting than a classroom lesson!

Take a Photo of a Famous Building

Make it a tradition to take a picture of an iconic building or landmark in every place you visit, and learn about why it so famous. This could be the Parthenon in Greece, Big Ben in London, the Opera House in Sydney or the Sky Tower in Auckland.

Visit a Place You’ve Only Seen in the Movies or Read About in Books

Bring stories to life with a visit to the settings of your child’s favourite books or movies. Take a trip to the Disney Castle at Disneyworld Paris, a pit stop at Hobbiton in Matamata, New Zealand or an excursion to London’s Kings Cross Station, frequented by Harry Potter when he boards the Hogwarts Express.

Find an Endangered Animal

Put nature front of mind by tracking down an extinct or an endangered animal that your child is particularly fascinated with. This could be achieved with a visit to a dinosaur museum exhibition or an overseas zoo.

Experience a Cultural Ceremony

Culture comes into play when you book in for a cultural event or ceremony. This could include witnessing traditional dance in the Pacific Islands or partaking in a hangi on a New Zealand marae.

Visit a Distant Relative

Stress the importance of keeping in touch with family by bringing your child to visit his or her relatives he or she rarely sees. Query them as to what they think is similar about their lifestyle, and what is different, in comparison with their own.

Celebrate Another Culture’s Holiday

As a kid, absolutely nothing beats a good party. If you can fit it in your schedule, catch a special holiday or cultural event important to your host country. This could be an Irish Saint Patrick’s Day, a New Zealand Waitangi Day or an American Thanksgiving.

When it comes to inspiring a love of travel in your children, there are many fun possibilities. Check out this clip from Expedia on more ideas to start planning your family adventures!

Disclaimer: The views of authors on our website are not necessarily representative of those views of our website. Articles contain only general information, correct at the date of publication. For advice regarding your own personal circumstances, always seek individual advice from a qualified professional. This article may not be reprinted, reproduced, or retransmitted in whole or in part without the express written consent of SingleMum.com.au. Please read the complete Singlemum.com.au Disclaimer here

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]]> https://singlemum.com.au/single-parent-travel/single-parent-travel-articles/holiday-wish-list-21112013/feed/ 0 https://singlemum.com.au/single-parent-travel/single-parent-travel-articles/the-ultimate-theme-park-bucket-list/ https://singlemum.com.au/single-parent-travel/single-parent-travel-articles/the-ultimate-theme-park-bucket-list/#respond Tue, 12 Nov 2013 07:33:37 +0000 http://localhost/wordpress2/?p=330 The Ultimate Theme Park Bucket List A Single Parent’s Guide to the Big Five Theme Parks! Theme Park Capital | 12 November 2013 Share While budgets are stretched at the best of times the following bucket list contains activities for every wallet size The holidays are almost here; Christmas decorations glisten as you navigate aisle … Continue reading A Single Parent’s Guide to the Big Five Theme Parks! →

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A Single Parent’s Guide to the Big Five Theme Parks!

Theme Park Capital | 12 November 2013

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While budgets are stretched at the best of times

the following bucket list contains activities for every wallet size

The holidays are almost here; Christmas decorations glisten as you navigate aisle four. Unfortunately, their appeal hasn’t wilted since September, when tinsel and candy stockings started climbing onto the shelves, beside the Halloween gear and what was left of the Easter eggs. The kids have been ticking off a dwindling number of school days, eager to explore and luxuriate in an endless string of summer days, Mum placed firmly at their beck and call – or so they seem to think. While we all certainly enjoy this time with our kids, the Six Week Countdown is on from day dot, as we balance the expectations of our offspring with the limitations and lack of leave from our jobs – sadly, holidays only seem to really apply to children. While budgets are stretched at the best of times, the following bucket list contains activities for every wallet size.

Do you remember the first time you set foot on the rickety bulwark of a roller-coaster? The swaying platform of stilts and metal, a worn harness slipping over your shoulders, pressing in tight and then tighter still, the slow click-click-click of the conveyor belt and then air, rushing air, filled with adrenaline, loop-the-loops and enough G’s to bring up a dagwood dog. Childhood death-traps have come a long way since then. A theme park is so much more than jaw dropping coasters and bad carnival food (who can go past fairy floss?); from terrific tigers and water buckets to zombified experiences and a playful fellow named Henry, theme parks are here to stay and thus the perfect pit stop for Mum’s with active and fanciful kids.

Movieworld

The Low-down: Hollywood on the Gold Coast has undergone a face lift in recent years, steering the emphasis away from stage shows, to pulse pumping pursuits and Marvel madness, attracting the Caped Crusader, the Man of Steel and the Guy in Green to its gates. Tire the little ones out with a session on the Superman Escape, a coaster with a go-faster attitude, as it churns up the gears from 0-100 in two seconds. Still champing at the bit? Take a seat on the Green Lantern Coaster and batten down the scream hatches – you might leave your voice box behind. This would be the perfect place for a comforting word and a Ryan Reynolds reference; as you take a record breaking dive, think of Ryan and his spandex, holding that thought? Good. After catching a stage show or two, stick around and wrap yourself up in a magical White Christmas adventure as Movie World transforms into an enchanting winter wonderland. Winter in summer, curious.

Dreamworld

The Low-down: Unwind in the theme park capital of many memories and let the kids explore the mini nations within; let the monsters loose on the main park and sit apart from the chaos, feeling the gentle breeze on your neck. While you chill out, let the little ones and not so little ones brace the Battle of Kevill Hill, competing against the undead in the spine-tingling Zombie Evilution, before taking turns racing from the Buzzsaw, to the Tower of Terror, to the Gold Coast sky goring Giant Drop, a stop-gap of the now Big 8 Thrill Rides, since 1998. Tired of losing your lunch and possibly your patience? Change gears and pull them back down to reality, spending some family time with the brothers of Tiger Island, as the gorgeous Baru and Ravi lap up the attention, educating curious minds with their playful, frisky attitudes. Finish the day with a show and a bite to eat, giggling along with Madagascar’s King Julien, Alex, Gloria and Co., as Dreamworks brings lounge room entertainment to life – play games and party, nabbing a photo of your kidlets with the cast!

Sea World

The Low-down: Dizzy from the rolling, falling and stomach dropping days behind you? Understandable. Change gears and jump aboard the education train, as Sea World captures even the most discerning interest with its enclosures and family friendly attractions. Baby animals are hard to walk past. There’s something about their eyes, their roly-poly limbs as they master the movement of their little bodies, and Polar Bears are no exception – in fact, they epitomise the rule. Fluffy, dense fur, wide eyes and a playful gait will soon have you swooning over Henry, tempting even the most besotted mother to trade her human edition for the cuddly critter before her. You may not agree! Weather the kids’s seal siesta protests and complaints of “that’s boring” with a ride on The Storm – an upcoming sensation to be launched in late 2013. Though nothing is certain (as kid resistance has yet to be tested), all predictions indicate they’ll never complain about being bored again! And when else fails, dinosaurs! Big, scaly lizards everywhere!

Wet ‘n’ Wild

The Low-down: Queensland can feel like one big sauna sometimes, and not in that fluffy towel way – a quick splash in the pool on a Saturday may stave off the temptation to live in the deep end, directing the household from a noodle chair, but sadly, this dream won’t come true. Instead of cleaning the pool more often, send the kids to Wet ‘n’ Wild, a slippery good time packed with plenty of slides and rides to send their squeals of delight into overload – no matter how much sunscreen you slather on them, they will get a little sunburnt! And while taking a dip all day is always a good plan, make sure they stock up on drinkable H20, as the gulps of water at the bottom of the tunnel won’t satisfy their needs for long!

WhiteWater World

The Low-down: Dreamworld has always been advertised as so many worlds in one, and in the last few years, it has truly lived up to its promise. WhiteWater World is the perfect solution for those Mum’s who fancy a day out with the kids by the pool or several, playing into the adventurous spirit of kids and adults, transcending age demographics and fulfils promises of being a rollicking good time. After conquering the Super Tubes Hydrocoaster and nabbing pole position on The Bro, watch the kids run around and zip in and out of the Pipeline Plunge; be ready for the big wash, however, as the bucket overflows and spills its slippery contents on the unsuspecting crowd below.

While the Coast is bursting with things to do (the Australian Outback Spectacular is an notably singular experience and a Sky Point Climb – well, a certain persons knees are still jangling), heading into the holidays with a plan of attack will ensure the minimisation of glitter, juice cups and dirt trails leading to the bathroom. Summer, is it just for kids, what do you think? Let us know in the comments!

Disclaimer: The views of authors on our website are not necessarily representative of those views of our website. Articles contain only general information, correct at the date of publication. For advice regarding your own personal circumstances, always seek individual advice from a qualified professional. This article may not be reprinted, reproduced, or retransmitted in whole or in part without the express written consent of SingleMum.com.au. Please read the complete Singlemum.com.au Disclaimer here

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]]> https://singlemum.com.au/single-parent-travel/single-parent-travel-articles/the-ultimate-theme-park-bucket-list/feed/ 0 https://singlemum.com.au/single-parent-travel/single-parent-travel-articles/frankfurt-by-foot-03-07-2013/ https://singlemum.com.au/single-parent-travel/single-parent-travel-articles/frankfurt-by-foot-03-07-2013/#respond Wed, 03 Jul 2013 07:41:22 +0000 http://localhost/wordpress2/?p=332 Frankfurt by Foot: 5 Top City Attractions You Can Walk To Single parent travel | Bree Williams | 03 July 2013 Share A diverse city with great art, shopping, historical sites, architecture and outdoor areas… Whether you’re preparing to visit Frankfurt on vacation, for business, or have an airport stop-over, you’ll find many fascinating attractions … Continue reading Frankfurt by Foot: 5 Top City Attractions You Can Walk To →

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Frankfurt by Foot:
5 Top City Attractions You Can Walk To

Single parent travel | Bree Williams | 03 July 2013

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A diverse city with great art, shopping, historical sites, architecture and outdoor areas…

Whether you’re preparing to visit Frankfurt on vacation, for business, or have an airport stop-over, you’ll find many fascinating attractions just waiting to be explored by foot in this great city. A diverse city with great art, shopping, historical sites, architecture and outdoor areas, Frankfurt can easily be explored by foot, whether you have a day, a week or even longer to spend on your travels. Enjoy soaking up the sights and the sounds of this beautiful city by foot and, apart from leaving no carbon footprint, you’ll also have a memorable experience at an affordable price. Read on for five great attractions you don’t want to miss in Frankfurt.

The Goethe House

Germany’s most famous writer, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, was born in Frankfurt in 1749. Fans of his work can take a trip back in time by visiting the house where he wrote the first version of his best-known work, “Faust”. Although the house was actually destroyed by bombing in World War II, it has been fully rebuilt and restored in every detail. On a visit you can see the original furniture, books and paintings of the Goethe family, plus also some manuscripts written in his own hand. The adjoining museum contains artworks that inspired Goethe (who also loved to paint) plus works associated with some of his literary contemporaries.

Main Tower

One of the best ways to see Frankfurt is from the top of the 200-metre-high Main Tower. The city’s only high-rise open to the public, the tower offers sweeping views of Frankfurt’s bustling cityscape plus the forests that ring the city. Head to the 55th floor observation deck to see the 360-degree views and, if possible, visit at sunset to watch as the city changes from day to night life. If you find you get a little hungry during your visit, you can grab a snack at the restaurant located within the tower as well.

Eschenheimer Turm

A Frankfurt city landmark, gothic-looking Eschenheimer Turm was built in the early 15th century and is one of the few remaining towers of the medieval fortifications that used to encircle the city. Sitting in the middle of downtown Frankfurt, the 47-metre-high Eschenheim Tower, as it is also known, managed to survive the war completely intact. These days it’s a popular tourist attraction that houses a restaurant and bar at the base — a good spot to enjoy some people-watching.

Jewish Holocaust Memorial Wall

The Jewish Holocaust Memorial Wall contains more than 11,000 names, in alphabetical order, of Frankfurt’s murdered Jewish citizens. Honouring all the local people who perished in the Holocaust (including Anne Frank and her mother and sister), the Memorial Wall provides travellers with a powerful opportunity to learn from one of the greatest horrors of the 20th century. Surrounding a medieval Jewish cemetery, the wall provides families and visitors alike with a spot to come and pay their respects.

Palmengarten

A perfect place to visit in spring or summer, the Palmengarten botanical gardens is a green gem in the city. Founded in 1868 by a group of Frankfurt locals, the gardens take you on a nature-driven study of the world. The horticultural journey covers different climates from around the world, from the African savannah to the exotic rainforests and European flower gardens. Palmengarten covers 50 acres and offers a variety of greenhouses to explore, as well as more than 6,000 different botanical species. While visiting you can also rent a rowing boat, ride the miniature train, take a tour, or enjoy outdoor concerts in the summer months.

About the Author: Bree Williams is a travel writer and blogger with a passion for international holidays, outdoor nature experiences and the path less travelled. She loves to keep up-to-date with the latest travel news and recommends you look for cheap flights to Frankfurt on Expedia.

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Disclaimer: The views of authors on our website are not necessarily representative of those views of our website. Articles contain only general information, correct at the date of publication. For advice regarding your own personal circumstances, always seek individual advice from a qualified professional. This article may not be reprinted, reproduced, or retransmitted in whole or in part without the express written consent of SingleMum.com.au. Please read the complete Singlemum.com.au Disclaimer here

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]]> https://singlemum.com.au/single-parent-travel/single-parent-travel-articles/frankfurt-by-foot-03-07-2013/feed/ 0 https://singlemum.com.au/single-parent-travel/single-parent-travel-articles/samoa-20130324-2/ https://singlemum.com.au/single-parent-travel/single-parent-travel-articles/samoa-20130324-2/#respond Thu, 28 Mar 2013 07:51:06 +0000 http://localhost/wordpress2/?p=334 Samoa: Your Destination for Natural Beauty and Outdoor Fun Single parent travel | Guest article | 28 March 2013 Share If you love natural beauty and having fun outdoors Samoa should be on your list of places to visit If you love natural beauty and having fun outdoors, Samoa should be on your list of … Continue reading Samoa: Your Destination for Natural Beauty and Outdoor Fun →

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Samoa: Your Destination for Natural Beauty and Outdoor Fun

Single parent travel | Guest article | 28 March 2013

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If you love natural beauty and having fun outdoors Samoa should be on your list of places to visit

If you love natural beauty and having fun outdoors, Samoa should be on your list of places to visit. The rainforests, pristine beaches and waterfalls of the 10 Samoan islands will have you feeling like you just stepped into a postcard. And the weather couldn’t be any more perfect — the temperature averages 30 degrees all year, and the ocean is about 25 degrees.

Here are some places to visit and things to do when you take your Samoan holiday.

Upolu

This island is home to Apia, the capital city of Samoa, and the airport. Here you’ll find uncrowded beaches to the south, and dense, tropical vegetation in the interior mountains. The Falefa Valley is lush with plant life, and you can spend hours watching the intoxicating waterfalls. Be sure to check out Papapapai-Tai Falls and Togitogiga and Sopoaga waterfalls.
Vaiula Beach Fales is situated beachfront in the village of Tafatafa on the south coast. Come here for great fishing and surfing. The Samoa Tourism Authority maintains the Saanapu and Sataoa Mangroves, and visitors can take a guided canoe tour.

Apia Harbor is also definitely worth checking out. The views at sunrise and sunset are amazing, and you will enjoy watching the boats, yachts, ferries and cruisers. The wood lighthouse at Apia Harbor is also an interesting spot to visit.

Lauiula Beach Fales

This exquisite white, sandy beach is located on Lano, Savaii. The crystal-clear lagoon is worth seeing as well. Lauiula Beach Fales is great for swimming and snorkelling, and it is also known as one of the best spots for kite surfing.

Alofaaga Blowholes

These natural features — some of the most beautiful in the country — are located in the district of Palauli on the island of Savai’i. When the tide rolls in, powerful waves come up through a series of tubes, known as blowholes, created from lava flows. The water erupting through these blowholes looks like fountains or geysers.
Tafua Peninsula Rainforest Preserve

This preserve is located along the south eastern coast of Savai’i. Here you can see the best assortment of flora and fauna in Samoa. There is also a lovely, scenic walk that leads to the extinct Tafua Savai’i volcanic crater.

Falealupo Rainforest Preserve

This preserve is located on the south-western coast of Savai’i. The canopy walkway in the forest provides spectacular views and lush greenery and flowers. While exploring this area, do some bird watching and check out all the interesting varieties of trees and orchids.

Le Pupu Pue National Park

This park, which means “From the Coast to the Mountain Top,” offers wonderful views of Samoan wildlife and is the only tourist destination in Samoa that doesn’t have entry fees for tourists. Good hikers can check out a cave and a waterfall within the thick rainforest. The park is designed to host the habitat of an endangered Tongan species, the Tongan fruit bat, or flying fox, which illegal hunting has almost rendered extinct.

Auala Green Turtle Conservation

This conservation site is located on the northwest coast of Savai’i and is the site of the largest turtle preserve in the world. The magnificent green turtles continue to be hunted in the wild for their meat, which is why they need to be preserved. The guides of Auala village will offer their vast knowledge about these beautiful creatures and the conservation’s efforts to save them.
Lake Lanotoo

This tranquil centre of Upolu Island, which has been designated as a national park, is the perfect place to hike to in the morning and at dusk. The lake, which is also known as Goldfish Lake, is a volcanic crater. Along your walk, you can check out the many plants and extraordinary birds in the area. In fact, this forest is one of the last refuges of two birds: the rare tooth-billed pigeon and the giant honey eater. And once you arrive at the cool, green water, take a swim and enjoy the view.

Palolo Deep Marine Reserve

For the adventurous, this Samoan spot offers the opportunity for a wide range of water activities, such as swimming, diving, rafting and snorkelling. A variety of marine life can be seen here as well.

Enjoy Samoa for a Beautiful and Enriching Holiday

Exploring these beautiful islands is not only fun — it’s a great way for you and your friends or family to enjoy cheap holidays in Samoa. When you’re relaxing on the beach, you can enjoy the sun and water without blowing your budget.
No matter where you go and what you do in Samoa, your breath will be taken away every day. And that’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

About the Author: Melba Walker is a writer and a travel expert. She helps all her friends and family plan their trips, especially to places that are full of natural beauty.

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Disclaimer: The views of authors on our website are not necessarily representative of those views of our website. Articles contain only general information, correct at the date of publication. For advice regarding your own personal circumstances, always seek individual advice from a qualified professional. This article may not be reprinted, reproduced, or retransmitted in whole or in part without the express written consent of SingleMum.com.au. Please read the complete Singlemum.com.au Disclaimer here

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]]> https://singlemum.com.au/single-parent-travel/single-parent-travel-articles/samoa-20130324-2/feed/ 0 https://singlemum.com.au/single-parent-travel/single-parent-travel-articles/short-getaways-for-time-poor-single-parents-2013-03-08-2/ https://singlemum.com.au/single-parent-travel/single-parent-travel-articles/short-getaways-for-time-poor-single-parents-2013-03-08-2/#respond Fri, 08 Mar 2013 07:58:19 +0000 http://localhost/wordpress2/?p=336 Short Getaways for Time-Poor Single Parents! Single parent travel | P&O Cruises | 08 March 2013 Share Short Getaways: The Perfect Alternative for The Time-Poor Single Parent! We all know that when Mumma’s happy, the family is happy. As single parents, we face a few more challenges on the road to that happiness (although we … Continue reading Short Getaways for Time-Poor Single Parents! →

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Short Getaways for Time-Poor Single Parents!

Single parent travel | P&O Cruises | 08 March 2013

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Short Getaways: The Perfect Alternative for The Time-Poor Single Parent!

We all know that when Mumma’s happy, the family is happy. As single parents, we face a few more challenges on the road to that happiness (although we also have some things a little easier!). Little luxuries like a Sunday sleep-in are treasured – bigger luxuries like a trip away from home, even more so!

If you have managed to score some babysitting time and are looking to get away from home – or if you have saved enough pennies to bring your kids for a short vacation – we have the perfect mini-trips for you! Come fly, sail, steam, drive or hike with us along the road to some well-earned relaxation, with our seven top short getaways.

With the kids

Camping Trips

Once you’ve outlaid a little bit of cash for a tent, camping stove and sleeping bags, your next camping holiday should cost nothing more than the fuel to get to your destination! Boys especially love camping, surrounded by dirt to dig in, rivers to fish and splash in, and not a shower or bath in sight. Nothing that the kids play with will require too much clean-up, and they’ll fall into their sleeping bag exhausted every night – leaving you to have a good night’s sleep and enjoy it all over again.

Holiday Rentals

If you’ve got other single-parent friends with kids, why not take out a holiday rental on the beach or hire a houseboat for a week? You’ll all get much better facilities than you could afford as a single family, plus there’ll be plenty of kids to entertain each other and plenty of other parents to share the cleaning, cooking and kid-wrangling. What a luxury!

Cruising

Think that cruises are only for merchant bankers? Think again – they are actually very affordable holidays. The price of a cruise can look intimidating because most providers list an absolutely all-inclusive cost – but if you do your own maths, you’ll quickly realise that it is great value and a lot less stress than organising meals and activities yourself. Many cruise providers offer babysitting services at an extra cost, possibly even in your own cabin so that little ones can get their sleep. A safe environment with activities just for kids, no suitcase-dragging and other adults for company – bliss!

On Your Own

Overseas

Going overseas as a single parent with your kids is certainly possible, but for most of us it simply doesn’t make sense to go overseas for a ‘short getaway’ with kids! However, if you have an offer of babysitting, or the kids’ other parent will be having them for a week or more, why not hop across the pond to New Zealand, or head up to Fiji, Indonesia or Thailand? These are well known as countries where you can do a lot for very few Aussie dollars – and the perspective of being overseas will give you a new appreciation of home, and your kids, when you get back.

Hotels with Kids Clubs

If you don’t need exotic activities and faraway destinations to have a great holiday, there are plenty of easy, simple hotel holidays to enjoy with a kids’ club on site. Most major hotel indexing websites allow you to search for hotels with kids’ clubs as one of your advanced search options … so you can get away without having to traipse all over the countryside.

Spa/Skiing/Adventure Holidays

You can check out tourist hotspots and hang out at the hotel with kids – so if you don’t have to take care of them on your short getaway, why limit yourself to an ‘ordinary’ getaway? Go skiing, scuba diving, snorkelling, hiking, sailing or parachuting, or simply pamper yourself with a spa getaway.

Travelling as a Single Parent

If you haven’t managed a holiday as a single parent yet, there are some things you should be aware of before you go! Keep in mind that:

• Many advertised packages have a ‘singles supplement’. Yes, this is unfair – but there are providers that don’t charge you extra for not bringing an adult partner, and if you can’t find any, you can always get around this by simply booking your accommodation, flights, car hire and activities separately by yourself.
• Ensure you plan a balance of activities – one-third what the kids want to do, one-third what you want to do, and one-third activities you’ll both enjoy.
• You’ll need travel insurance, even within Australia
• If you’re going overseas with kids as a non-custodial parent, you’ll need legal documentation
• Pack light and make sure you book accommodation with clothes-washing facilities!
• And the final, and most important tip … your holiday is there for fun, relaxation, refreshment and perspective. You work hard and you deserve it – make the most of it!

This article is brought to you by SingleMum.com.au and P&O Cruises offering cruise holiday packages to exotic locations around Australia, New Zealand, Asia and Pacific Islands.

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]]> https://singlemum.com.au/single-parent-travel/single-parent-travel-articles/short-getaways-for-time-poor-single-parents-2013-03-08-2/feed/ 0 https://singlemum.com.au/single-parent-travel/single-parent-travel-articles/ipads-for-kids-on-long-drives-2013-02-21-2/ https://singlemum.com.au/single-parent-travel/single-parent-travel-articles/ipads-for-kids-on-long-drives-2013-02-21-2/#respond Thu, 21 Feb 2013 08:04:58 +0000 http://localhost/wordpress2/?p=338 Great iPads Apps to keep the kids busy on long trips Single parenting travel tips | Guest article | 21 February 2013 Share Don’t Be Afraid To Surrender The iPad To The Kids On Long Drives The iPad has completely revolutionised portable entertainment, and from social networking to editing pictures, there are literally hundreds of … Continue reading Great iPads Apps to keep the kids busy on long trips →

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Great iPads Apps to keep the kids busy on long trips

Single parenting travel tips | Guest article | 21 February 2013

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Don’t Be Afraid To Surrender The iPad To The Kids On Long Drives

The iPad has completely revolutionised portable entertainment, and from social networking to editing pictures, there are literally hundreds of things you can do to make your journey that little bit more interesting. 32 gigabits is quite a lot of space, and whether you want to fill your iPad with music, films, games or a combination of all of them, there’s more than enough room for a diverse selection of applications.

iPads are expensive pieces of equipment however, and the last thing you’d want to do is place it in the hands of someone clumsy – like a child for example. But actually, iPads have proven to be great travelling buddies for kids, and thousands of parents claim to have had a far less stressful journey when their kids are busy playing with the tablet.

Applications for kids continue to push the boundaries of innovation, and they can be found on most tablets other than the industry-leading iPad. Even the Kindle Fire and Nook are capable of downloading hundreds of applications for children, so if you’re looking for something a little cheaper than Apple’s leading product, then there is plenty of choice! Let’s take a look at some of the top iPad applications for Children this year.

My Mum’s The Best

This a great app aimed at children between the ages of 2-4. Filled with hilarious and charming illustrations portraying why small and baby animals think that their mums are the best, this app is an excellent opportunity to introduce your child into the wonderful world of technology. Furthermore, it’s also one of the best ways to get your kids to recognise animals, other than taking them to the zoo!

Elmo Loves 123s

That’s right – Sesame Street is still going strong, and Elmo has even moved into the world of tablet computers to get his educational messages across! Not only will this app teach your kids to count from 1 to 10, but it also has lots of fun and inspirational videos to which your kids can sing along. This app uses a number of the technological features bespoke to the iPad, and with a variety of drag and drop elements to this app, your children will be iPad wizzes in no time!

Rounds: Parker Penguin

This app is a bargain considering the amount of features it comes with. Available on iPod Touch, iPad and iPhone, Rounds: Parker Penguin is aimed at children ages 3 to 6 years old, and is an interactive, roleplaying game that will keep your kids entertained in the back of the car for hours! As soon as the game starts, your children will be introduced to Parker Penguin, a small chick growing up in the crazy city of America.

Each page of this science book app will help you to interact with Parker, and the environment he’s growing up. It’s your kids’ job to keep him out of trouble, help him network the city, find a lady chicken to mate with and protect their egg. Once the egg hatches, the story starts all over again!

This article was contributed by Cheapflights

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Disclaimer: The views of authors on our website are not necessarily representative of those views of our website. Articles contain only general information, correct at the date of publication. For advice regarding your own personal circumstances, always seek individual advice from a qualified professional. This article may not be reprinted, reproduced, or retransmitted in whole or in part without the express written consent of SingleMum.com.au. Please read the complete Singlemum.com.au Disclaimer here

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