Holidaying abroad as a single parent

[Notmuchever]

For the last ten years I have holidayed mostly in the UK. This year in taking DC 8 and 12 to a Greek island and suddenly feeling nervous. Before DC I always made an effort to speak the local language but last time I took them away I found it exhausting trying to manage. I also realised how much I relied on my ex to find our way around, order food etc.
Have you traveled alone with DC and found it fun?!

Hi OP yes I travel abroad with my DC. Since he was a baby. My tips are go all inclusive, book a package holiday with someone like TUI as I find they are the best priced since COVID and offer protection.

Look for an on site waterpark, kids club and a hotel close to the beach.

I don't stress myself about speaking another language as most of the other holiday makes speak English.

TUI offer discounts for solo travelers.

A couple of years ago I did a long haul flight too it was paradise.

Learn please, thank you and hello/goodbye.

Greek is a different alphabet, but you could have fun with DC learning a bit before hand before you go. But in resort they will speak English.

Remember to get your "permission" letter from Ex (although at those ages the DC can explain they are on holiday with mum, dad is at home)
Check all your passports now. They need extra validity for EU now.

Enjoy.

You will need to carry the kids birth certificate too if you have different surnames.

I've already booked and it's not all inclusive but it's a small resort and a small hotel close to the beach so hopefully manageable. Hadn't thought of a letter and birth certificates thanks.

I'm going to have to take youngest to the loo with me. He can't swim so need to be careful at pool. I wonder are there other practicalities I need to think of!

Following... I want to take mine away but I’m a single parent to 4 I won’t be taking all of them as it would be too much hard work for me so planning on taking 2, then 2 after. I haven’t been abroad for 10 years so I do feel nervous about it.

I was a single mum for years. DS and I used to go with Mango and we had some great holidays. I never really fancied going alone as I wanted adult company in the evenings.

I love taking mine on holiday abroad. They are older now but when they were younger I always made sure everyone had a spare set of joggers/T-shirt and undies in their hand luggage (me included) in case of any mishaps on the flight. Spills, lost luggage, nappy/toilet disasters.
You will get to know other families on the same trip - I always found people are very helpful when they see you travelling solo with DCs and help you with things like luggage or directions.
If there is a holiday rep, let them know you are solo with DCs. They are a huge help.

You will have a fantastic time!

Could you get some intensive swimming lessons for your 8 year old? Otherwise you won’t be able to relax at all surely?

He has flat out refused lessons so unlikely to be swimming before we go. Really stubborn when he takes against something.

Not worried about adult company or kids clubs. Life is busy so I'm looking forward to time with them. Just want to make sure it's enjoyable though. Last time abroad it was hard work and I was a little snappy which obviously I don't want to repeat. They are much older now though.