Planning a holiday in Kota Bharu? Read these 5 tips for holidaying with your children and family in Kota Bharu here.
Holidaying during the endemic phase is not something we have experienced before. We now have to adapt to the current situation for the safety of ourselves, our children and our family, because the endemic phase does not mean we are free from any virus. It is simply less dangerous, and we always need to stay cautious.
These 5 comprehensive tips cover the elements and things you should think about before, during and after your holiday. We have tried to keep them concise while making sure they help you plan your holiday strategically and enjoyably!
A Trial Holiday
A holiday also needs a trial run, just like a trial exam at school? If we think about it, why do trial exams exist? So that we are better prepared and know what we will face and how we will get through the situation.
So, for a holiday with your children and family, you can try going to the nearest areas first, perhaps a destination you can visit and return from on the same day, then try a 2-day, 1-night holiday in a nearby state with minimal travelling.
Observe how your children behave in the car, when visiting attractions, and at restaurants. Most importantly, talk to your children about the holiday they are about to experience. This will give them a little exposure to what they will go through.
Plan According to What Suits You
You surely know best what is good for your children and family. So try your best to consider all the factors when planning your holiday. This is so that your journey and holiday together will be more enjoyable and effective.
Among the things to consider when planning:
Journey: Departure and return times, your ETA (estimated time of arrival), travel distance, and stopping every few hours at R&R areas for fresh air and to buy food.
Safety: Make sure your vehicle is in good condition, with seatbelts and child safety seats for little ones, enough fuel, and most simply, observing the speed limit.
Activities: Make sure the schedule is not too packed, which would tire you and your family out. Consider your children’s energy levels and the distance between each activity.
The Latest Endemic SOPs
Read up and identify whether the destination you are going to visit or stay at follows the established SOPs. We may already be used to the relaxed rules during this endemic phase and have been vaccinated, but remember, children from infants to under 5 years old have not been vaccinated.
Among the factors to consider is whether the hotel practices the SOPs set by the National Security Council during the endemic phase, such as social distancing, disinfection schedules, air quality and handwashing facilities.
Make sure you have what you need to comply with SOPs, such as face masks, hand sanitiser and wet wipes. This is not only for COVID-19 SOPs but for any dangerous infectious disease.
Family-Friendly Service
You also need to know whether the service provided is family- and child-friendly. Spacious areas for the children, comfortable rooms, and not too many decorations that could be hazardous to children.
Every place you want to visit should first be assessed for suitability in terms of how spacious the area is, visiting hours when it is not too crowded, online ticket purchasing so you do not have to queue, and public facilities such as toilets and prayer rooms that are conducive.
Children’s Essentials: Toys, Clothing, Stroller, Food/Snacks
To make sure your children’s holiday is comfortable and enjoyable, bring along their favourite toys so they have something to keep them occupied when they start getting tired.
Snacks should also be brought along so they are never hungry. If a restaurant is too full, make sure you have snacks like bread and milk to tide them over before the main meal.
Comfortable clothing also plays an important role in ensuring their comfort, suited to the weather and the type of activity.
A stroller can also be an option if the children are tired of walking or feeling sleepy. Make sure it fits in your vehicle!
We hope these tips help you plan and view your holiday holistically, along with the factors you should consider. Happy holidays!
For family-friendly accommodation in Kota Bharu, Hotel Ma’Wa has a children’s playroom, while Hotel Salaam Suites offers free breakfast and a gym, both in the town centre.
For other tips, please read our articles here: 4 best ways and tips to get to Kota Bharu
5 tips for holidaying with children and family in Kota Bharu
