A little family travel wishlist

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I have ‘problems’ with wanderlust (always loved that word) all year round, but I don’t think it’s ever been as bad as now. I find myself searching for flights, hotels, weather reports and places of interest far more than is appropriate. Whenever I start looking I feel so overwhelmed with how fortunate I am to live in Europe where we have so many vastly different cultures, languages and climates within a few hours. It’s marvellous, and means options are endless.

When the new baby arrives one of the first things we want to do is book a family holiday, so we can squidge one in before Win starts school in September. The only criteria is (guaranteed) sun and sand, but from experience Jared and I don’t fair well on beach holidays. There has to be places to sight see, things to do in the evening and locals to mix with…otherwise what is the point of being somewhere new? I really don’t know where we’ll end up going, but I am so excited thinking about it.

There are many far off places I dream of visiting (who doesn’t dream of visiting Mauritius or Hawaii one day?), but these are the spots I’m dreaming of at the moment:

  1. Iceland – Last December we very nearly booked a trip to Iceland, but common sense got the better of us and we decided to visit Poland instead. Iceland will firmly remain my very favourite until we get the opportunity to visit. Even though it will probably be another year until we visit – that doesn’t stop me from stalking all of the sights and natural beauty spots.
  2. Morocco – This is another firm favourite. Whenever I imagine myself in Morocco I am staying in an atmospheric riad with low lighting, a pool, worn walls, handmade cushions and leather pouffes. I spend the day at the beach, and my evenings at a buzzing bizaar looking at lanterns, rugs and baskets. Actual heaven. Of course, in my dream, the children are perfectly behaved!
  3. Cuba – My parents and some of my younger siblings went to Cuba last year and after seeing the photographs I am desperate to go, before it gradually becomes ‘Americanised’. Lonely Planet describes it as: “Timeworn but magnificent, dilapidated but dignified, fun yet maddeningly frustrating – a country of indefinable magic.” That is exactly what I felt when I saw the photographs – as well as energy from all the dancing my mum was doing!
  4. Croatia – I went to Croatia as a student, and it is a place I have always wanted to take Jared to because it is completely enchanting. Dibrovnik is as perfect as it looks, and Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most breathtaking places I have ever been.  I would love to take the children swimming in the waterfalls there – I remember feeling like I was in a scene from ‘The Lion King’. The weather is exactly what you hope for, and island hopping is fun and easy.
  5. Scandinavia –  I have Finland and Norway left to visit and they are both places I would love to go during the winter. The trees, the snow, the husky rides, the cabins and the delicious food. No it’s not winter, but again – that doesn’t stop me from looking.
  6. Cornwall – I holidayed in Cornwall frequently as a child and I’ve loved going back as an adult. We are going with my side of the family this year and I am really hoping to have a proper surfing lesson. I absolutely love swimming in the sea and we always make sure we visit our favourite beach Kynance Cove – it is stunning.
  7. Barcelona – Jared says he has been to Barcelona, but I’m not sure going solely to visit the football ground counts. My eldest brother is a real lover of historic buildings and architecture, and he often tells me that I need to go. Quite simply because there is no where else like it.
  8. Istanbul – Another destination that has been on our radar for more than a few years. We love city breaks and Istanbul looks like such a delicious blend of culture, history, food and life. The weather is a huge bonus too. I’m not entirely sure how safe it is to travel here at the moment though, but it doesn’t stop me looking!

Where are you dreaming about going? Where have you been? and what suggestions do you have?

E xx

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6 Comments

  1. 17th March 2016 / 8:48 pm

    I’ve been to Cuba, it’s beautiful. Not going to lie though, the food isn’t great. It’s the one and only time I’ve been on holiday and lost weight 😂. The Copa Cobana was fun (we went before kids, lots of rum) and the old gangsta hotel in Havana makes amazing mojhitos! Plus there are the cutest sausage dogs everywhere, I’ve wanted one since! I really want to go to Morocco too!! I always think of wondering round the bazaar at night as well, in a floaty white boho dress to be exact. It’s funny how you can day dream in detail about visiting places. Thanks for your kind comment about our home too. Yeah, I am a bit worn out with it all. Still, could be worse, I should be remember to be more grateful, it’s still a lovely home despite the work. I think I’ve just been surprised by the amount of effort it’s taken xxx

    • Esther
      21st March 2016 / 12:29 pm

      I know exactly what you mean about imagining being somewhere else. I definitely think about what I would be wearing too – your white boho dress sounds amazing…of course against tanned skin 😉 Thanks for the tip on Cuba! xx

  2. 17th March 2016 / 9:35 pm

    Its so funny that I am reading this whilst looking up holidays AHHHH!! I think we are going to go to Normandy in May with the kids right after Naths Exams. I was looking at Norway and Denmark as options too, but they’re a little pricey for accommodation.

    I REALLY want to go to Croatia too,Poland, Mexico again, Tuscany, Morocco YES and Egypt is somewhere I have dreamt of for YEARS. Oh my we are so blessed to live where we do and so easily see so many wonderful places.

    • Esther
      21st March 2016 / 12:31 pm

      Nice one! That sounds delightful. J’s parents have booked us to all go to Normandy in August. I couldn’t believe it and it was so unexpected. I’m excited! You will have an awesome time and what a way to say goodbye to student life. WAHOOOOOOO!!!! So fortunate to live so close to amazing places! xx

  3. 20th March 2016 / 9:52 pm

    Try Switzerland!! Zurich is so easy to get around with children and so many lovely outdoor spaces, particularly in Zurich. I can’t wait to take the boys back. Just waiting for the weather to warm up a little so we can swim in the lake x

    • Esther
      21st March 2016 / 12:31 pm

      Research on Zurich will start tonight Rachel! This sounds gorgeous and lake swimming is wonderful! xx

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