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jugglingonrollerskates - Family. Adventure. Travel.
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Family holidays without meltdowns: Five ways to entertain your kids on your next trip - jugglingonrollerskates
Family holidays are meant to be fun, but if you’ve ever travelled with kids, you know how quickly things can go south when boredom strikes. From airport queues to rainy days, the trick is to plan ahead with activities and destinations that work for everyone. Read on for some practical tips on how to keep your kids engaged and entertained so the holiday feels like an actual break rather than an endless series of stern talks. Pick places that do the entertaining for you One of the easiest ways to ensure a smooth holiday is to pick a place that already caters to children. Think resorts with kids’ clubs, cities packed with child-friendly museums, or seaside escapes with organised water sports. And of course, beach holidays are a classic choice, especially at resorts that combine outdoor activities with structured playtime, giving parents a well-earned break too. Pack smart: Entertainment on the go Travel time can feel endless for kids. To make it bearable (and even fun), stock their backpacks and devices with colouring books, age-appropriate puzzle apps, story podcasts, and mess-free toys like reusable magic colouring pads. These little lifesavers will keep them occupied through flight delays or long drives. Introduce kids to local culture and nature There will be times when it feels like you’re just dragging them along to various sites and activities while they show little interest. But sightseeing doesn’t have to be boring. Kids can enjoy local culture if it’s approached the right way. Try taking them to street food markets, interactive science museums, or easy strolls through nature reserves. Approach it with the mindset of turning everyday moments into little adventures and you will get them excited about new experiences. Choose accommodation built with kids in mind It can take a bit of research, but you’ll thank yourself for booking a place with thoughtful child-friendly extras. Look for family resorts with pools, games rooms, and eating areas with kids’ menus. Some even offer supervised clubs or evening entertainment, giving you time to enjoy a glass of wine in peace. Kids need chill time: Plan a balanced itinerary It’s tempting to pack in all the sights, but young children will do better with a flexible, slower pace, no matter how excited and energetic they might seem at first. Mix busy days full of touring and activities with relaxed ones (lounging on a beach, for example), and leave space for naps, quiet time, or spontaneous side quests. Enjoy a tantrum-free family holiday It’s a challenge, but with a little foresight and a few clever tricks, keeping kids entertained on holiday is doable. Plan wisely, and your next family break will be the restful escape you’ve all been looking forward to.
Four things you and your partner can share (meaning more to spend on travel!) - jugglingonrollerskates
Beyond splitting chores and bills, there are a few practical things you can combine that could make life smoother and save you both money. From insurance policies to travel discounts, here are some things to consider sharing that can make life easier, more affordable and just a bit more organised. Life and health insurance You might not automatically think of these as something to share with your partner, but combining policies could save you both money and offer greater peace of mind. Many insurers offer joint policies or discounts for couples. By merging your life and/or health insurance, you could pay less for similar or even better coverage. Look at your options together, compare what different providers offer, and talk through your needs. It might not be a priority if you’re still young, but it’s an easy way to strengthen your security as a couple. Car insurance If both of you drive, combining your car insurance could be a smart move. You may be eligible for multi-car insurance, which allows you to insure multiple vehicles under one policy. This can lead to substantial savings compared to insuring cars separately. It also makes the whole process more straightforward, allowing you to manage one policy rather than multiple. You’ll have one renewal date to remember, and you won’t need to track multiple payments. Make sure the cover suits both of your needs, from fire and theft to breakdown cover. Sharing your car insurance can be an easy win if you’re looking to save. Subscriptions and memberships You probably already share a Netflix account, but there’s a lot more out there to consider. Think about all those streaming services, gyms and online platforms you both use. Many of these companies offer family or joint membership plans that can save you money without restricting your access or features. Many fitness apps and facilities offer duo memberships at a discount, so you and your partner can both enjoy workouts and health benefits. The same goes for streaming platforms, like Spotify, which offer plans for two users at a better rate. Railcards Travelling together? Consider investing in a couple’s railcard for even more savings. A Two Together Railcard offers discounted fares on train journeys, meaning you and your partner can enjoy cheaper tickets whenever you travel by train. Whether you’re going for a weekend away or simply commuting together, the savings really add up. It’s easy to apply for online and costs just £35 a year! Sharing these practical things can help smooth out everyday life and save you money. You’ll get more for your money and it’ll bring you closer together. And that’s what a strong partnership is about – finding ways to make life a little easier together
How to plan a motorhome trip to Portugal this summer: 5 essential checklists - jugglingonrollerskates
A motorhome adventure to Portugal offers endless freedom and unforgettable experiences. The open road is filled with picturesque beaches and vast countryside, allowing you to explore the country at your own pace. Whether you’re an experienced traveller or a first-timer, making sure everything is in order before hitting the road is essential. This guide covers everything from travel documents to driving laws, so you can focus on the fun and enjoy your motorhome journey to Portugal without the stress. Be sure to check the latest travel advice too. Travel documents and entry requirements Before you hit the road, make sure you have all the necessary documents to enter Portugal. As a UK citizen, you can travel to Portugal for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without needing a visa. However, ensure your passport is valid and that it’s stamped both when you enter and exit the country, as this is a crucial requirement. Though the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is expected to be implemented in 2025, it’s worth keeping an eye on updates regarding this additional travel authorisation, which could impact future trips. Vehicle documentation and insurance Next, you’ll need to get your vehicle paperwork in order. Carry key documentation such as proof of motorhome insurance, your UK driving licence and your vehicle registration document (V5C). With the UK no longer part of the EU, it’s good to note that a Green Card is not required for driving in Portugal. Still, it’s important to check that your motorhome insurance provides adequate coverage for EU travel. While your existing policy may cover driving within the UK, driving in another country often involves different risks and legal requirements. It’s vital to have the right protection. Some insurers offer specific EU coverage, so verify your policy in advance to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Camping regulations in Portugal Portugal is a beautiful place to explore by motorhome, but it’s important to respect local regulations when it comes to camping. Wild camping, which involves parking your motorhome in non-designated areas, is strictly regulated. In most municipalities, you can stay overnight in your motorhome for up to 48 hours, provided you’re not in protected areas, Natura 2000 sites, or areas designated for coastal development. Violating these rules can lead to hefty fines, so always check whether the area you’re staying in is subject to any restrictions. Health and travel insurance When it comes to health coverage, make sure you’re fully protected. The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) provides basic medical coverage in Portugal, which will cover some healthcare costs in case of an emergency. However, this doesn’t cover everything, especially in cases of repatriation or more complex medical issues. A comprehensive travel insurance policy will provide peace of mind, covering both health-related incidents and potential trip disruptions. Ensure your policy covers cancellations, lost luggage and any other eventualities that might arise. Driving laws and safety equipment When driving in Portugal, remember that you must drive on the right-hand side of the road, just like the rest of mainland Europe. Familiarise yourself with the local driving laws to avoid penalties, as Portugal has strict road safety rules. Equally important is ensuring your motorhome is properly equipped with mandatory safety items. These include a warning triangle and reflective jackets for all passengers, which are legally required in case of an emergency. It’s also a good idea to carry a first aid kit, spare bulbs and a fire extinguisher, just in case.