There is no doubt that traveling abroad with a family is different than traveling by your self or as a couple. Family travel does take a bit more planning and preparation in order for it to run smooth, but in the long run it’s all worth it. In our previous article “Travel the World as a Family,” we pointed out a lot of benefits of how international travel enhances the family experience and draws the family unit tighter together but creating unique shared experiences. Also pointed out was the fact that family travel can be safe and if planned right, cost effective. Now let’s talk about one of the greatest gifts you can give your children. A lesson about life and the world we live in.

Family travel invigorates children’s natural sense of curiosity when they are introduced to new places and people. When children see the world first hand their eyes are open to the fact that there are many other cultures and ways in which people live. In our modern world of electronics and video games our children lose a sense of all the amazing things in the world, such as nature, cultures, languages, geography, and history.

Put down the game console and see a real life castle, early trade settlement, a pirate hangout, a fishing village, a historical church, a famous ancient structure or a natural wonder. Exposing children to another culture and country provides them with some comparisons to the world back home in which they live. Often giving them a sense of appreciation while also creating open mind and compassion for others and a global understanding.

Traveling children that get a chance to experience other cultures opens their minds to all the diversity the world has to offer. The often return from their travels with more compassion and understanding of other people they come in contact with. Instead of seeing another person (or child at school) as different, they will now see them as someone with a rich history and realize that kindness can build friendships.

Children learn about history in school and in books but only get a glimpse of how history has impacted the modern world came to be. What they don’t get from school and books is a real picture of the places and people that were part of it. When children travel to places that they only read about and see it first hand it opens there minds and the get a true sense of the cultures and places really are and what they may have been like during the times past. The world is filled of amazing places and cultures that played a large part of many countries history.

During family travel, take time to go explore the historical sites, places, and museums. You’ll be surprised at how much interest the kids will have when they recognize that they have heard about these places and events but know have a real visual of what they learned about. The whole family will gain a new appreciation of the place they are visiting, not only for its beauty, but also for the rich history behind it.

One of the greatest experiences the whole family will enjoy and get a lot out of is taking the time to stop and talk to local people about their country and culture. Local people get excited that you are interested and are taking the time to learn more about them and will give you a heart felt welcome and a huge sense of hospitality. – Bring Learn Grow