Belize It or Not?

Wow! What an opportunity! I can see the hesitation with the kids. It's not like they are likely to remember ANY of the trip and it will be added baggage for you to care for them (and not disrupt everyone on the planes). A real conundrum if you ask me. I've traveled quite a bit out of the country and HIGHLY recommend it for everyone! Nothing makes you appreciate the USA until you see how other people live.

3 hours on a plane with a kiddo isn't so bad...but what are you looking at in layovers? Do you have time to let the 3 year old run around (even if inside an airport) and get that extra energy off them? If you don't, it's going to make for a mighty miserable trip. I've not known many 3 yr olds who can sit still for that long, does yours? And 6 mo olds are pretty wormy. I mean will taking a laptop computer with DVDs occupy them for enough time, will coloring and other things distract them enough? There is always the age old...keep them up and let them drop (i.e. fall asleep) on the plane (I always do this b/c I get motion sick on planes). It will be a pain in your butt and trying on the nerves but may be worth it in the end. Especially if you and hubby can tag team naps and taking care of the children.

As for the physical aspects of it. My mom was a nurse in the US Embassay in Equador and Thailand. Before I even stepped out of the country she made sure I had EVERY shot recommended by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control). Many people don't realize that they post recommendations about each and every country you could consider traveling to (from whether it is physically safe to what immunizations you should have). I would start there. From there I would talk with my PCP to make sure you have prescription strength levels of Immodium and possibly antibiotics if you feel so froggy (I sure would...a Z-pak is easy to carry and if you ask the pharmacist or tell the Dr. they can give you the kids Z-pak w/o mixing it so all you have to do is add the distilled water on the other end when you get there which should pacify airport security).

As for Swine flu, it's overrated. Last year 30 people died in Great Britain from it. 30 people! Jeez, in a regular flu epidemic over 3000 people die in a year in Great Britain! This is an over televised and unnecessary scare on the public...you're more likely to die from a car accident than you are from the swine flu. Yes, flu's can be deadly but swine flu is no more deadly than any other...in fact, it's been around for years...it's just the first time it's made TV news. Whoo hoo! I wouldn't worry about this...if you want to worry, worry the plane will go down. Keep up your vitamins, eat healthy and consult your Dr. but I wouldn't keep Swine Flu from taking you on an exotic vacation.

Finally, you said this was bought and paid for by MIL...as an alternative, could or would your parents or other family members be willing to watch the kids for a week? It would give you and hubby a great vacation on someone else's dime and you would be more than refreshed when you got back...look at it as a second (and free) honeymoon. I know I sure would!

BTW- is your MIL adopting? LOL ;)

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We've only gone outside the country to the Bahamas since we had kids, but I would love to take my kids back to Belize or to Costa Rica.

I wouldn't let the flight worry you. We took a 3-month old to Tampa last year and this year to Destin and, as long as you prepare with food and toys, the flight can be fine.

As far as traveling at flu season or swine flu, I think you will be able to get the flu vaccine long before then to protect yourselves against the flu. Lastly, when we've been in Belize, we didn't ever have a problem with the water, so I don't know what to tell you. It's a beautiful place and an awesome experience for your kids.

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Hi A.,

When I first read the title of your question it though "why is she even asking?" I'm going to Belize in November and can't wait!!
But then after reading your entire post, I think you do have a couple of good reasons to at least think things through thoroughly.

I personally am not worried about the swine flu. I don't want to get into a discussion with anyone, but my personal beliefs are that this is highly over rated by the media and some health officials. I think anyone who is otherwise healthy shouldn't worry. *I am a registered nurse and have never had a regular flu shot and I'm not going to start with this one. I also have never had the flu. But I always support my friends and family with their decisions. So I wouldn't worry about that one.

I also travel a lot and have never had Montezuma's revenge, even when I went to Mexico, so I guess that's not on my radar either.

But I do understand your concerns about traveling that far with little ones. It would be a bit of a challenge and quite frankly not really a vacation for you. It could be a ton of fun if everyone was going to pitch in and watch the kiddos or are you and your husband going to spending your time taking care of kids and not enjoying the surroundings.
I think that would be my biggest question and conversation with your husband's family of what the plans for the week were. That way you can tell the expectations for the week. But it would be a shame to miss this opportunity!

Good Luck,

L. K.

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What a horrible dilemma!! ;-) We went to Jamaica in June with my then 28 m/o son. 2 flights about 2hours each plus a 1.5 hour shuttle to the resort. Lots of waiting and delays, and yes there was crying and screaming and whining (some even by my son!) but he did as well as most of the adults, and it was well worth it! Sure, it's a long tiring day but you'll all live. Talk to your pediatrician before you go to get any shots or meds you might need. Let's face it, we pretty much know if they need some antibiotics and certainly over the counter things, and if something more serious happens, the hospitals there are pretty good, and if you get too concerned, you can just fly home early. Of course, if you decide not to go, I'd be happy to fill in for you!! Good luck!

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I would go. It sounds like fun.

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Before you go, get your family vaccinated for the swine flu. The vaccine with be out before you leave. If they won't give you one then explain why you want one for everyone in your family. Then talk to your doctor about something you can take to avoid montezuma's revenge. I went to mexico years ago and drank lemonaide made from the water and the fresh veggies and such. And never had a problem, but did take imodium with me and took one a day. I don't know if that helped, but didn't get constipated either. Talk to your doc and see what he suggests. Your kids will be fine, bring stuff to keep your daughter entertained on the flight and your baby will most likely sleep. Good luck and God Bless.

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I understand all your reasons for being cautious about going. I have two very small ones myself. If I were in your shoes, I would go. 100%. And a big part of my certainty is that it would not just be my husband and myself helping out with the kids. I'm sure the kids would love to spend some time talking with Grandma in the airport while you go to the bathroom by yourself, unrushed (that never happens otherwise). If they do get sick, they may help taking care of them. If you get sick, and they don't, they'll still be able to have a fun time with the rest of the family.

That being said, try to get to a travel clinic and explain your fears. They may be able to help with any special tips or tricks that a regular doctor would be unaware of.

In any case, good luck!

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Hmmm....you sound like you really want to go without kids! I agree that it quite possibly could be a challenge to take your children, but for your MIL- the whole point seems to be: to enjoy Belize as a family.

Soooo, do you calm your own fears & concerns.....or do you disappoint THE ENTIRE FAMILY? Wow, you're right: it's a conundrum! & as a reality check, please remember that your conundrum is one that soooo many families wish they had.... rather than wondering whether or not they can make this month's mortgage payment. & this is said with a smile, never intending to be sharp or judgmental!

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wow what an experience. I would definately go. Sounds like you worry too much and need to relax. You can make yourself sick by worrying. As far as the swine flu goes, the symptoms aren't any worse than any other flu virus, the media just likes to put fear in people. I have asked the doctors about it and they say it's just another version of the flu.

I just took my kids to Florida, 24 hour drive straight through without hotels and they did fine. We have always traveled even when they were just a few months old and kids do fine. They enjoy the trips as much as we do. 7 hour trip isn't nothing and they will probably sleep most of it. When my youngest was 2 we drove to Georgia about every 6 weeks which is a 17 hour drive (was me and the 3 kids). I don't remember him ever getting cranky on those trips. We don't travel now as often but when we do they know to pack things to do. We buy those color wonder books and they are only allowed to use them during trips. They are expensive so that is one reason we only use them for trips, the other reason is it is something new and keeps them interested longer. If they did them often at home then it wouldn't be as fun so it is a trip treat for them and I buy them each a book before we leave on a long trip. You can also pack your laptop or a small video player and videos for them to watch movies. Take some headphones too so you don't bother others on the plane. Most of the trips my kids have been on were just with me as their Dad was military and he couldn't go most of the time. There was no are we there yet questions because I taught them early that if they continue to ask questions like that the trip would take even longer because I would pull off the road and sit there when anyone asked that question or if they started bickering at each other so they learned that wasn't a good thing to do either as it only prolonged the trip.

Plan for a good time and don't think about things that could happen. If you dwell on the what if's you won't ever have fun in life. Life happens and you just learn to deal with things as they come along but don't borrow trouble along the path by worrying all the time. Worrying causes stress which can lead to physical and mental health problems.

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I would go without the kids. Like if your parents could take care of them. If no one is around to take care of them I would probably take them.

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By all means...... GO!!!! This is a great opportunity for you and your family, and the memories you will make are priceless. Plus, the price is right!!! We have traveled a lot with our children, and if you plan it right, it can be a lot of fun. You'll want to take plenty to do while on the plane, and keep lots of snacks and drinks handy. Crayons, sticker books and small games will work well for the plane. If you have a dvd player, you can get movies and show them during your waits. I always would try to get some new toys they hadn't seen before that will peak their interest. Belize is not a 3rd world country, and you shouldn't have to worry too much about the food. WHen in Mexico, we always avoid products with ice and naturally made juices in case the water hasn't been purified and of course, make sure we're not eating anything off the street from vendors. But, in Belize, you shouldn't need to worry too much. Just make sure you're eating at places that cater to tourists, as they usually make sure they use purified water products. Although Belize is right by Mexico, I don't think you should be overly concerned about swine flu traveling over the border. Just keep hands washed and sanitizer in your purse. Belize is incredibly beautiful from what I've seen in pictures and is on my list of places to visit someday. Have fun!!!

I just read the other responses after posting this one so thought I would add something. If you are all staying together, you should have plenty of help with the children. Yes, it will not be easy lugging little ones around to get there, but you will not be doing it alone. Your wonderful husband and in-laws will be helping you. You will have your own house for naptimes, and I assume, for cooking, if you so choose. You in laws know the ages of your children, and they know the challenges of having young ones, so I'm sure everyone will be accomodating for naps, etc. When we traveled, my kids were usually too excited for naps and would go nonstop all day. Please don't let all of these concerns prevent you from having what should be one of your most memorable family vacations ever!! It will work out!!! Let us know how it goes.

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I would go and bring the kids. What a blast that would be!

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First, I've taken trips from Springfield to Bogota, Colombia, with all my kids. Yes, it is a LONG trip, but it's definitely worth it. My trips were all for a much longer period of time, so that made it easier to keep the girls' routines.
When we go, even now, we always drink bottled water. If you get diahhrea, or the kids do, eat lots of rice for a while, and I reccomend pedialyte and/or gatorade. And it's good to stay away from lettuce, because it's washed with the water that you don't want to drink :)
I don't mean to sound bossy, just trying to let you know what we've done. My first trip, I had a 1 yr old and was 6 months pregnant. The second time, we had 3 yr old, 2 yr old, and a 3 month old, and so far, all the trips have been worth it. You might want to let your 3 yr old have her own backpack to carry some crayons, coloring books, etc..
Good luck!!!

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I think you should go. If you see all this problems maybe not be adventure, have fun enjoy the fact of learn about a new country been third world or not you can learn a lot from other cultures.I do understand your concerns but I think you don't want to go so like I said don't go but you don't know what your missing . I fly so many times with my son alone, no problem we are moms we know what to do to keep our kids busy, and about the flue thi is not just a Mexico problem or Hispanics i understand your concern but is also a litle racism on it. You can get sick here too. If was me I would go but I love to travel , learn and the adventure. Good luck .

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Why don't you get a baby sitter and just you and your husband go.

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Hello A., Let me start off by saying that I have a 3 1/2 year old boy and a almost 3 motnh old boy. I understand how hard it is to fly with children. I haven't flown with both of my boys yet but my oldest son and I have flown 3 times together. My son was 9 months old and we flew from Guam to California (13 hour trip) and then the next day went from Cali to Kansas.( about 4 hours) He did great and he sleep most of the time which I think your 6 month old will too. I think that if you bring a DVD player, stuff for your 3 year old to do and lot's of snacks I think she will do fine. I know that as my son got older it was harder on the plane but if you bring enough stuff for her to do I think she will be alright. From the way you were typing it sounded like you have a lay over that is great cause you can get all of you something to eat and your girls will be able to move around. As far as the swine flu I mean you can't really hide from it. I'm kind of scared about that too but you can get it no matter where you go. I think that if you have a bad feeling about this trip at all then you shouldn't go. Go with your gut feelings. I hope this is helpful to you and good luck if you decide to go! God bless you!

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GO, don't even think about not going!! We just took our 2 yr old to Italy on a family trip. A great time. We travel all the time with our daughter. She's been to Hawaii, 2 cruises, countless domestic trips. Having a baby has never stopped us. Kids are very flexible, and with some advance planning, you can travel just fine. Be sensible, visit kid travel web sites for some tips, consult the TSA web site for security info with kids. BabyCenter.com has a great kid packing travel checklist...I use it every trip. And be sure to prep your kids for what is going to happen (ie, we'll be taking our shoes off to go through security). Most important, travel is a wonderful education for your children. I am the daughter of a TWA retiree...I learned so much about the world by traveling with my parents.

Email me privately if you want more of my travel tips for babies/toddlers. Bon Voyage!

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Go girl.. never miss an opportunity for a free trip. My son (2 1/2) has traveled so many times with me that he should have his own frequent flyer account. I take colors, books, small cars and such and most airports have play places. He only gets bottled water and no ice so we haven't had issues with that. Have a great time...!!!

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