Traveling During Maternity Leave: My Journey with a Newborn and a 6-Year-Old

Embracing Travel After Baby

Packing your newborn and yourself into the car for a passport appointment might seem daunting. However, this was my reality shortly after welcoming my second child. With a limited maternity leave opportunity, I wanted to seize it to explore new horizons with my family.

Training Wheels for Family Travel

Having previously experienced the confinement of staying home with my first child, I recognized the importance of travel during maternity leave. Since my partner, older son, and I had traveled to Europe while I was pregnant, we were eager to continue our adventures together.

Belize became our choice for a family vacation due to its exotic nature, safety, and considerably lower travel cost during the summer months. Moreover, we could keep our adventure confined to domestic travel initially, allowing us time to adjust to being a family of four.

Diving into Belize

After a month in Northern California, we finally received the baby’s passport and headed off to Belize. Although our travel plans faced initial delays, the experiences that followed were unforgettable. Staying at Falling Leaves Lodge, our family quickly embraced the beauty of the jungle environment.

The universal appeal of our newborn broke the ice with locals and fellow travelers alike. Our days were filled with tropical adventures, including visits to ancient Maya ruins and unique local experiences, such as the Green Iguana Conservation Project.

Facing the Challenges of Family Travel

Traveling, however, is not without its challenges. From the heat of the jungle to unexpected situations, it tested our resolve. On one occasion, I found myself tearfully relieved to discover baby formula in a local grocery store after scouring multiple markets. This experience highlighted that parenting—and traveling with children—requires resourcefulness and adaptability.

A New Perspective on Travel

Ultimately, this journey taught me that travel can be a fulfilling family experience, even with young kids. The memories we created together reinforced the idea that we can face obstacles and continue to explore the world as a family. It’s an exciting start to numerous adventures yet to come.