Vacationing solo with a little one is so much more rewarding and fun than most would imagine. This is our second "girls" trip (the first was a solo adventure to Mexico when she was just 2). At age 3 1/2 she has become a true partner in fun and travel... I purposely choose to set aside a week each year for some one on one time. This time we rented an Airbnb just off of Abbot Kinney in Venice beach before roadtripping to Palm Springs for a little relaxation at the Parker Hotel. In the off season the plane tickets and accommodations are so much cheaper that it's hard to pass up. We biked, hiked, dined (so much we made up for those low priced plane tickets) shopped and swam until our hearts content. Evening strolls were a highlight this trip, not only because we loved chatting but also due to the crazy heat wave we encountered. I don't allow any electronics (except occasionally on long plane rides) so we pack baggies of toys and sketch pads for most meals and car rides. Traveling with someone who loves food and trying new things as much as I do is definitely a plus. We basically ate and snacked our way through Southern California one avocado toast and smoothie at a time. I tend to hear people saying "I think age 5 or later is a good time to start traveling... when the child will enjoy and remember it". But for me personally I think traveling is so important for people to open their minds and get out of their comfort zones. Trying new food, sleeping in different beds and most of all spending time alone and uninterrupted with a loved one are all experiences that leave a lasting impression on someone... even if they don't realize it just yet.
Packing tips with littles
- small packable figures (I like busy book toys)
- sketch pads and sticker books
- pack light (one suitcase and a carry on... preferably a back pack to leave your hands free)
- a real pillow to make plane and car rides more comfortable
Stayed
Eat
Venice Beach
Gjelina, Gjusta, Tasting Kitchen, Malibu Farm, Butchers Daughter, Erewhon Market, Salt Air, Kreation, Joans on 3rd
Palm Springs
Normas at the Parker, Shermans Deli, Kings Highway Diner, Mr. Lyons, Workshop