You’re wondering if it’s really worth the effort to travel with your little ones..?? IT IS!! North African culture places a high value on little people and their presence with you will likely win you greater favour with locals, and the memories you make as a family will be unforgettable! There are a few tips that can make your experience… a little smoother 🙂
#1 Children tend to reflect the attitudes of the adults around them…
If you have an attitude of adventure, chances are that your children will join right in there with you! When toileting is tedious in a remote outpost, a taxi driver seems to be traveling at autobahn speeds through a village market, or it’s your first time having a fried fish stare at you from your dinner plate, your response will help not only to determine their attitude in the present situation but will likely be a part of fostering a long-term love of learning, exploring cultures and traveling. Even your moody teenager will likely thank you one day for expanding his worldview!
#2 Snacks, snacks, snacks and WATER…
Late night Couscous dinnerWith children (and adults!) of all ages, having stomachs satisfied and thirsts quenched can go a long way in keeping our outlooks a little ‘rosier’… keeping snacks and water on hand at all times can be a real lifesaver when food isn’t immediately available to you or your Sahara guide hasn’t even started the couscous cooking fire before your toddler is wailing in hunger! North Africans love all sorts of nuts which are available all over. Bread, bottled water and fruit that can easily be peeled and munched are also common things to find even in farther-flung destinations. Do remember to peel all raw produce before consuming as many of the bacterias here are not the same as your home county:-)
#3 Transportation… hire a driver!?
Traveling in a developing world country WILL be an adventure… you’d like to do your part to stay away from unnecessary MISadventure! Depending on the age of your little ones and your past travel experiences, I would highly recommend considering the hiring of a driver over taking public transportation. In most North African countries, you shouldn’t count on finding an English speaker to come to your aid and even reading a train or bus schedule can be quite unnerving! Public transportation can be a great experience… or it can be a challenge that eclipses some of the other goals you have for your trip… you make the call! Mosaic North Africa is ready to advise and assist you in planning your transportation 🙂
More traveling tips with children coming soon…
Walking through a desert Oasis Riding quads over the dunes!!