Trips With Tots

One Golden Rule; Plan Ahead

If the thought of taking your toddler on holiday fills you with dread, think again. With careful preparation, it can be a rewarding experience..

1. Avoid environments that are too hot, too cold or too wet. The ideal temperature for a toddler is tepid. If you are not sure where to go, remember that playing on the beach is a favourite activity for most toddlers.
2. Young children invariably get bored during long journeys. Fill the day before with activity so they're more likely to sleep.
3. Consider travel by train-toddlers' favourite type of transport.
4. If flying, choose a departure time that fits in with normal sleeping patterns.
5. Don't count on an airline to feed toddlers to their tease. Pack food.
6. Toddlers can be fussy about the place they sleep-take their own bedding or a pillow. And bring a favourite cuddly toy.
7. Consider going with another family so you can share childcare.

http://www.amazon.com/Have-Toddler-Travel-Sarah-Tucker/dp/0340819960

Maps Off The Beaten Path

Tried of traipsing around the usual tourist attractions?
A Green Map of a distant city, or even a nearby neighbourhood, can show you the links between cultural sites and the natural environment.

Compiled by local residents using software provided by the Green Map System, the maps highlight everything from bicycle paths to bird watching platforms in cities from Jakarta to New York.

The slick Singapore map reveals just how many green, open spaces the city-state has. Even the less professionally produced maps are a great insight into what resident find important.

Most of the maps can be downloaded at http://greenmap.org
click on "store". Individual maps cost $5, including shipping. Some maps can also be found at tourist information kiosks.