4 Places to Avoid Traveling With Young Children

We are strong believers that it is possible to do nearly all you can do on a trip without young children. But there is a short list of things we never do or spend a lot of time planning and preparing for in order to maintain order.

Children shouldn’t be brought to some places. If you have young children, it may be wise to postpone some of your most anticipated trips until they are older and more appreciative travelers. When traveling with children, our expectations for how the day will unfold can vary greatly.

When traveling with toddlers, we recommend avoiding the following places scattered all across the world:

1. Paris

True, Paris is the heart of French history and culture and houses some of the world’s most exquisite works of art. Compared to other European cities, it is much simpler to get around in as a visitor because of its accessibility and the abundance of information available in the form of guidebooks.

But take it from a person who was taken across Paris when they were 11 years old: Seeing the Mona Lisa in a room full of rude people from 20 feet away isn’t going to interest your children. 

They won’t remember the Arc de Triomphe or worry about La Defense when they’re older. Versailles and Notre Dame could pique their interest due to their beauty, and the Eiffel Tower will undoubtedly garner their enthusiasm.

2. Beijing

For obvious reasons, not many Westerners attempt to take their children anywhere in East Asia. The distance and linguistic barrier make it unrealistic for family trips. But if you want to expose your kids to a variety of cultures while in Asia, Beijing isn’t the place to do it.

The Great Wall of China is an impressive landmark. China is one of the top nations in economic growth. Many of the top businesses like led strip suppliers and most experienced manufacturers of energy control valves initiated from there, but most of Beijing’s attractions aren’t likely to pique the interest of children and teenagers. Even if you don’t have asthma, the city’s pollution will make you miserable.

Not only that, but you can forget about expecting authentic Chinese cuisine. Pieces of chicken are often delivered with their bones still in them, fish are often presented whole with their heads still on, and the menu may or may not be legible or correct in the English translation.

3. New York

Most Americans want to see the Statue of Liberty, and there are some great kid-friendly shows on Broadway, but New York City isn’t likely to hold children’s interest beyond those two attractions. 

There is no reason to believe that New York City’s museums are superior to those found in any other city; they pale compared to the Smithsonian Institution’s holdings in Washington, DC, just a few hours’ drive south.

The cost of living in New York City is so high that booking a hotel for the whole family could be prohibitive. Costs for eating out and traveling can quickly spiral out of control, especially if you plan to visit many different locations. Due to the unpredictability of public transportation, you may need to pay for a taxi with an expensive baby isofix car seat to return to your accommodation at a reasonable time.

New York City is perfect for a day trip if you reside or are visiting close by, and it may be worth staying overnight if you plan on seeing a Broadway production.

4. Tokyo

If your kids are into Pokemon or anime, they may already have an affinity for Japan and its culture. Though it would take a lot of time to go to Japan from the United States or Europe, those in Australia or Southeast Asia might possibly make the trip. The people of Japan are widely regarded as courteous and neat. It seems like a reasonable option.

The trouble is that there isn’t a whole lot for excited kids to do in Tokyo, and the city is always packed with adults and costly adults. Your children will only have an interest in being hauled to so many churches and malls before they become bored and rebellious. 

Arcades are fun, but you should probably avoid them if you don’t want to hear your children repeatedly beg for money or complain that they lost. 

Furthermore, unless your children are particularly daring eaters, you will likely have to forego some of the city’s finest eateries in favor of fast food joints.

Other Nations Where Toddlers Are Not Welcome

Travelers should do their homework before arriving at their destination to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Taking a young child to a polluted, dangerous, or otherwise unhealthy country or location is very unsafe. Listen to the news and maintain your awareness of current events. 

Also, make sure whatever you take along is safe and secure. Not only for children but it is important for your precious belongings like jewelry safe wholesale too. 

Take note that if you have purchased travel insurance, your coverage will be null and void if you visit a country or region that the government has issued a travel warning against.

Conclusion

The goal of most parents with young children is to provide them with a childhood full of memorable experiences and exciting travels. 

Even if it’s a worthy objective, the fact remains that some locations aren’t exactly kid-friendly. That doesn’t mean Disney World is the only place to take a youngster because it is more suited to children than others.