One of the most exciting aspects of international travel is that you get to see, first hand, some of the landmarks and notable buildings that serve as the icons for specific places. For example, you might head to San Fransisco and drive on the Golden Gate Bridge, see the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben in England, or however many beautiful places that enflame your imagination, and show your children the wonderful world they live in.
But of course, sightseeing is also a practical task to manage. This is especially true given how the more iconic the landmark, the more people will be there to see it. Sometimes, dealing with such heavy tourism can feel like running into an assault course while you’re trying to have fun.
With that in mind, let’s consider some practical tips for sightseeing with your family, to help avoid the stress that might otherwise come:
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Try Off-Peak Seasons
Off-peak times can be best for visiting landmarks because, of course, there are less people around. For example, you could see the Eiffel Tower with a dusting of snow, or enjoy a quieter Venice in the fall outside of carnival season. During off-peak times, prices for flights and hotels often drop too, making the experience more reasonable. You might even get a more authentic feel for the place without all the tourist hustle.
Consider Family-Friendly Guided Tours
Some people think tours are cheating in some way as if you haven’t really traveled if you use them. But that’s silly, as most of them are well-curated to make the process easier and more exciting. Look for tours that are designed with families in mind, as they often include activities to keep the little ones engaged and usually move at a more manageable pace. A good guide can also bring history to life in a way that’s fun for kids and interesting for adults.
Plan For Nearby Accommodation
Staying close to the sights you want to see can make your life a whole lot easier. You might pay a bit more but think about the time and energy you’ll save. No long commutes when everyone’s tired at the end of the day, and you can do more in that area as well, exploring most of that experience. For example, you may already walk miles around a local park, so hotels near Zoo Tampa could save you so much more time.
Be Mindful Of Pickpockets
Sadly, popular tourist spots can be prime targets for pickpockets or street vendors that aren’t trustworthy. But it shouldn’t place a dampener on your experience. Just be aware and take some simple precautions. And don’t engage with anyone who tries to give you something or address you. For example, in the Pyramids, sometimes scammers are known to direct you away and pretend you’re walking the wrong route. But as long as you’re not climbing on the stones, you’re fine. Be mindful and question what everyone says unless they can show you official badges of merit. And be mindful of those who come too close, as pickpockets can sometimes work in teams.
With this advice, you’re sure to remain safe and enjoy a wonderful time sightseeing with your family.
For more on this topic, check out the full Travel Tips collection
