Where to go and what to do with kids in the Ziller Valley.

For anyone looking to explore somewhere new, a holiday away from it all, something a little more active and fun, yet safe and suitable for single parents and their children, look no further than the beautiful Ziller Valley.

The Ziller Valley (or “Zillertal” in German) in Tyrol has long been a top summer destination amongst its neighbours, yet in the UK we still tend to view this Eldorado for outdoor lovers as purely a winter destination. After all, the Ziller Valley is one of the best ski resorts in Austria as well as Europe. In truth, it is also an exciting place for parents and kids of all ages, with Mediterranean temperatures in the summer months, beautiful swimming lakes, spectacular waterfalls, adventure playgrounds on mountain tops, natural ice caves, and thrilling outdoor activities, such as rafting, paragliding, and canyoning. And these are just some of the things that make the Ziller Valley such a perfect choice for a holiday with teenagers as much as a holiday with little ones.

How to explore the Ziller Valley with kids

Located 40 km east of Tyrol’s capital Innsbruck, it is the largest valley in Austria, branching off the Inn Valley in Tyrol and following the course of the River Ziller. The Ziller Valley is surrounded by the glaciated Zillertal Alps to the south and east, the lower peaks of the Kitzbühel Alps to the east and the Tux Alps to the west.

Take the kids hiking

The best way to enjoy the stunning scenery, is by going on a hike. With 256 hiking routes available, you and your kids are spoilt for choice and can pick those trails that suit your family’s abilities. Hiking routes range from easy hikes and nature trails in the valley with little elevation to demanding hikes up the highest mountain peaks. Best of all, you don’t have to worry about your kids getting bored: Local maps will direct you to treasure hunts, fairy tale walks, barefoot walks, and adventure trails for children. This may be your first family hike alone with your children where you will be able to appreciate the stunning countryside, fresh mountain air and feel at one with nature. Family hikes are a great way to relax and recharge your batteries.

Visit the Hintertux Glacier

Hintertux in summer is a hidden treasure and no holiday in the Ziller Valley is complete without a visit if its impressive glacier. At the highest point, the glacier reaches 3,250 m, and the ice of the glacier is 120 m thick at its deepest. That is pretty impressive! The 3 gondola rides to the peak of the glacier are an experience in their own right: You literally travel through the seasons, from summer in the valley to deepest winter when you finally reach the peak. Here you can enjoy breathtaking views, play in the snow and visit a natural “Ice Palace”, a crevasse in the glacier and one of the most amazing natural wonders. The Hintertux glacier is the only glacier in Austria where you can ski all year round, hence it is no surprise that it is a very popular destination for skiers from all over Europe.

Make a splash

Kids love water and there is plenty of it here! With temperatures regularly reaching the 30s in summer, you have  to make time in your schedule for a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters of one of the many lakes of the Ziller Valley, or for a fun day at an adventure swimming pool complete with giant slides and wave machines.

The beautiful swimming lake “Schlitters” is just one of those wonderfully warm lakes perfect for swimming, and sunbathing on its spacious lawns. Jetties are built into the lake for easy access, and you can relax and take in the stunning Alpine scenery whilst swimming and relaxing at the lake. Just a stone’s throw away is a sports centre, a beach volleyball court and a café with a large terrace overlooking the lake.

Alternatively, there are a range of pretty amazing adventure pools in the Ziller Valley. One of the best of its kind is the thermal spa and adventure pool in Fügen, which has an indoor and outdoor pool area stretching over 1000 m² with the largest slides in Tyrol, wave machines, salt water pool, toddler pool, large greens for sunbathing, playground, trampoline, and much more. After spending a day in the natural thermal spring water, you will feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

Get an adrenaline rush

The Ziller Valley is a paradise for adrenaline junkies of any age. From high rope gardens to zip lines, tandem flying to summer tobogganing – there is a huge amount of things to do with kids here. If you and the kids like to keep active or try out new things, you should spend your  single parent holiday in the Ziller Valley.

If you and your kids like a thrill, check out the Arena Coaster in Zell am Ziller. It is just like an elevated roller coaster, with the added benefit of amazing mountain scenery and fresh Alpine air. The adventure begins right above Zell am Ziller: Get into a cart, push forward to release the brakes and off you go whizzing down the mountain at your own speed an. At 9 m above the ground, this 1,450 m track will provide pure excitement for adults and kids 10 years and over.

If you or your children are dare devils, you can get your adrenaline fix at the “Almflieger” zip line at Gerlosstein. Fly through the air at speeds of up to 50 km/h – an activity that is not for the faint hearted. The Almflieger has four zip line canopy tours, the longest of which is 738 m. This is an experience you and the children will never forget. Your kids have to be at least 10 years old to take part with you.

If zip lines and roller coasters are not your thing, check out the new Aerial Forest Park in Gerlos, one of the newest forest climbing parks in Tyrol – similar to GoApe in the UK. With 45 parcours elements at 10 to 15 m above ground, there is something here for all ages and abilities. The Aerial Forest includes zip lines, rope bridges, log bridges, and many other fun elements.

Indulge in Tyrol’s culinary delights

There are not many regions in Austria with a cuisine as outstanding as that of the Ziller Valley. The local gastronomy sector here has “reinvented” many Tyrolean specialities and serves them in a new and contemporary way. Wherever you go, be it restaurants, mountain huts or café, food here is authentic and mouthwatering. Traditional dishes as well as fusion cooking inspired by modern and light cuisine are featured on the menu of many restaurants.

Like everywhere in Tyrol, you will find countless kids friendly restaurants in the Ziller Valley with indoor or outdoor play areas to keep the kids occupied whilst you are waiting for your meal. At the Goglhof in Fügenberg the kids can meet the farm animals and enjoy the nature-themed playground. The family-run Hintertuxerhof offers stunning views of the Hintertux Glacier whilst serving hearty meals and a huge outdoor playground. There is no better way to relax and enjoy a meal with the kids.

The Ziller Valley is one of the most beautiful regions in Austria and a mere two-hour flight away from the UK. It is within easy reach from both Innsbruck and Munich airports.

If you are worried about travelling solo as a single parent, don’t worry: Just join our single parent holiday in Austria and enjoy the benefits of a fully organised group holiday, including private airport transfers and a 4-day activity programme. Spend less time organising and more time having fun and exploring this beautiful part of the world!

Travelling to Europe and beyond on your British passport

Do you know what the rules for travelling abroad are since the UK left the European Union? In the UK, we are used to a huge amount of travel freedom, rarely requiring a visa on entering a country. So, what, if anything, has changed for British passport holders? Single Parents on Holiday have looked at the new rules for international travel post-Brexit.

Travelling to the EU on a British passport – what has changed?

Until 31 December 2020, Britons were allowed to travel within the EU as long as their British/EU passport was valid. So, what has changed? If you wish to travel to an EU country (or one of a handful of other European countries), you now need to ensure that you have at least 3 months left (in some cases 6) on the day of your planned departure from the Schengen area AND that your passport must be less than 10 years old. Just checking the expiry date is not enough: You also need to check the start date. It doesn’t matter if your passport is the old burgundy EU/UK passport or the new blue UK passport.

In addition, if you are travelling to Europe in your own car, you will now need a green card and a GB sticker. The green card can be obtained from your insurer if you have taken out insurance for driving your vehicle abroad. Make sure you allow sufficient time to obtain the green card. Beware that some EU countries also require you to have an international driving permit.

So, do you ever need a visa to travel to Europe? Generally not, but there are time restrictions now as to the length of time you can stay in Europe for leisure. If you are British tourist visiting an EU or Schengen country, you can stay for a maximum of 90 days within a 6-month period. It should be noted that staying in Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, and Romania does not count towards that 90-day limit. If, however, you are a British citizen who is going to work, live or study in one of the 26 countries in the European Union or Schengen zone, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa. A Schengen visa currently costs €80 per adult. Keep an eye on the ETIAS website as the rules for visa free travel to Europe will change in the last quarter of 2025.

Where else can Brits travel without a visa?

British citizens continue to have visa-free entry to a total of 187 countries and territories, giving them a huge amount of travel freedom if they are tourists. The list of countries outside the EU where British passport holders do not need a visa is long and includes, amongst others, Andorra, Norway, Montenegro, Switzerland, Morocco, much of the Caribbean, Israel, Thailand, Japan, South Africa, New Zealand, and most of South America.

How can you find out if you need a visa?

It is important that you check whether you require a visa well in advance of travelling abroad. Your travel agent or tour operator will usually advise, but it is worth checking the gov.uk site or a visa site, such as Byevisa.com, to make sure you don’t get caught out: Ultimately, obtaining a visa is the traveller’s own responsibility. Brits often assume that they do not need a visa to travel abroad, but as we said earlier, there are scenarios that require you to hold a visa, and these also have to do with the purpose of travel and the length of time you intend to stay:

Staying longer than 90 days in a 180-day period or working, studying, or living in a Schengen country means that you need to apply for a Schengen visa.

There are also a number of other countries popular with UK tourists that require you to apply for a visa either on arrival or in advance. Countries where you only need a visa on arrival and where this is merely a formality and either free or inexpensive are typical tourist hotspots, such as the Maldives, the Seychelles, and Tonga, but also the UAE. Countries where you need to apply for a visa in advance include, amongst others, Australia, the United States, Canada, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia.

Whilst tourist visas are often straightforward and inexpensive e-visas, others can be more of a challenge. Notoriously difficult to obtain are visas for Russia, China, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Pakistan, to name but a few. As an example, travelling to China as a tourist for more than 72 hours means that you need to apply for a visa in the UK and schedule a face-face appointment at the Chinese embassy in London, bringing a long list of documents, including hotel bookings, flight itinerary, etc. The whole process can take a few weeks, so you need to start planning well in advance. Alternatively, you can go online and find a company to handle the process for you.

What is the ETIAS visa waiver scheme?

You might have heard of ETIAS and been wondering what this is and to what extend it applies to British passport holders. This is a new scheme created by the European Union and due to be enforced from 2022. For Britons, it will mean that they will need to fill in a form online and pay a small fee for a 3-year visa that will allow them to travel to EU and Schengen countries. The visa is designed to increase security for EU citizens and those travelling to the EU.

What about roaming?

Between 2017 and 2020, UK consumers were able to use the minutes, texts and data included in their mobile phone contracts when travelling within the EU.  Unfortunately, the Brexit trade deal between the UK and the EU did not include protection against roaming charges. Unsurprisingly, UK operators have started to reintroduce charges for roaming since January 2021. Make sure that you check and obtain a contract or SIM only deal in UK that allows you to use roaming data for your travels abroad.

What about travel insurance?

A point to note is that the UK has reached an agreement with the EU regarding the EHIC card, which will now be valid until its expiry date. The card allows citizens of EU and EEA nations, as well as Switzerland, to access free healthcare abroad in the case of an emergency. When your EHIC card expires, you will now need to apply for an GHIC card. Beware that not all state healthcare is free in the EU and that it is always wise to get additional travel insurance for scenarios such as treatment required for a long term or pre-existing condition or repatriation in case you fall severely ill and wish to or must return to the UK.

Naturally, it is even more important to obtain travel insurance if you enjoy ski holidays or are planning to go to a country that does not have a reciprocal agreement with the UK on healthcare. Don’t forget to check your insurance policy before you travel to ensure your holiday destination is covered and to check the small print with regards to the activities you are planning, as some, such as diving or winter sports, may be excluded. You can usually add these to your policy, and we always ask our single parents to check that they are covered for winter sports and tobogganing when they book one of our single parent ski holidays.

Travel may have been difficult and, at times, impossible over the last two years. But the world is gradually returning to normal, and most Brits are desperate to go on a much-deserved holiday after months of being stuck indoors. So, it’s good to know where your British passport can get you and that it is still considered one of the most powerful passports when it comes to travelling the world.

About the Author:

Single Parents on Holiday offer fully-organised single parent holidays, including beach holidays, farm holidays, activity holidays, single parent ski holidays and solo holidays for singles and single parent empty nesters.

and the effect of quality sleep on your child’s physical and mental development:

Sleep has a significant impact on human health throughout life, especially for children and teens. To give your child the best possible start in life, and protect it from physical and behavioural problems as a result of poor sleep, you should consider the benefits of a good quality mattress for your kids.

Why sleep is so important for children

We spend a third of our lives in our sleep (that’s around 25 years in total). And this is not time wasted: According to One-Stop Mattress FAQ sleep is good for healthy brain function, emotional wellbeing and physical health. Sleep deprivation can lead to obesity, behavioural issues, poor concentration, a weak immune system and even depression, particularly in children. That’s why having a comfortable place to sleep is a serious matter. And if our children sleep well, so do we – and what’s more important for single parents than rest and a good night’s sleep?.

How many hours a day do kids grow? All 24! This process is especially intensive during sleep. Whilst several factors affect the production of the human growth hormone, which plays a key role in your child’s growth, the most important one is sleep.

The benefits of an orthopaedic mattress

If a child has breathing problems, tosses and turns at night, and wakes up in a bad mood, the reason, more often than not, is the child’s mattress. With a mattress that has orthopaedic properties, however,  healthy sleep is virtually guaranteed. Of course, if in doubt over the reason for your child’s sleeping problems, consult a doctor, a registered nurse or a student that uses online guides like Osmosis to ensure there is no other cause.

Orthopaedic mattresses are firmer than conventional mattresses and designed to support the body, i.e. muscles, bones and joints. But they are so much more than a solution for people with back pain. They come in many different degrees of firmness giving ideal push back for the perfect sleeping position thus reducing any tossing and turning. Weight distribution and spinal alignment together with improved blood circulation help your child to wake up refreshed.

Choosing the right mattress for your child

When choosing a mattress for your child, go by the following criteria: The mattress should have a flat surface, comfortable firmness, be eco-friendly, and relatively elastic. Specialist shops offer a wide range of designs so choose wisely. Consider the age and weight of your child and check the bed mattress size, its filling, durability, and care instructions.

The right mattress at every age:

For each age category, there are general and specific mattress criteria. If you have an infant under the age of 3, you are best advised to buy a medium firm mattress. As we all know, young children have soft and pliable bones, so if a mattress is too firm, this may result in discomfort.

Many doctors consider memory foam mattresses indispensable for kids, as they offer ultimate comfort by providing spinal support and pressure relief. Memory foam mattresses adjust to the child’s shape ensuring its delicate spine is in a horizontal position which is essential for correct posture. Hence, such mattresses also play a preventive role, in particular with musculoskeletal disorders.

From the age of 4, a child’s bone system begins to grow dynamically. It is at this time that your child’s sleeping surface needs to be firmer. Mattress models with independent spring blocks are one of the optimum solutions at this age.

From the age of 7, children will start to experience higher physical and emotional stress levels. Interrupted or shortened sleep is now a much bigger problem now causing  general fatigue and potentially physical ailments, such as a negative effect on bone density. Children’s bones need sleep, or they will become fragile over time!

Children grow and their bodies change more rapidly from the age of approximately 13. The size, weight and shape of their body changes significantly. Therefore, spring-free mattresses with a firm surface based on polyurethane foam are now most suitable.

Other factors to consider:

• Antibacterial treatment with silver ions will protect the body from harmful bacteria. The material of a mattress cover should be “breathable” (check a 3D label on the edge).
• Don’t buy poor-quality products. Mattress fillings can contain harmful substances.
• Check the mattress certificate to make sure the product you are buying has been subject to the necessary quality and safety checks.

As we know, the right mattress can prevent the development of scoliosis, kyphosis, and spinal curvature. But a good quality orthopaedic mattress has many other benefits too: It regulates blood circulation and blood supply to all internal organs, prevents low bone density and stunted growth and helps your child wake up in a good mood and able to concentrate. And let’s not forget, if your child sleeps well, so do you, and naturally for single parents sleep is doubly important. So, a good mattress is an investment that will pay off for years to come.

If you liked this post, why not check out some of our other blog posts:

• How to Make Your Child’s Bedroom a Relaxing Space
• How to Decorate Your Kids’ Bedroom on a Budget
• 7 Benefits of Laminate Flooring for Families
• Single Parents: How to Look After your Mental Health

Our top ski tips for improving ski technique in any piste condition:

Are you dreaming of being an all-mountain skier and mastering any terrain, whatever the snow conditions? Can you get down a red or black run but are worried about moguls and ice? Or maybe you want to keep up with the other skiers on our single parent or solo ski holidays? Whatever your level, there is always room for improvement, leading to greater confidence and greater enjoyment. Read on to find out Single Parents on Holiday’s top ski tips on perfecting your ski technique in all piste conditions and becoming an all-mountain skier.

Ski tip #1: How to master powder snow and off piste skiing

Off piste skiing is the holy grail of skiing, yet a challenge even for the most advanced skiers. But there is no denying that it is any skier’s ultimate adrenaline kick. To master powder and off piste skiing, the right technique is crucial:

• Instead of keeping your skis wider as you do when carving on a bashed piste, keep them relatively close together to create a wider platform. This gives you more control over your skis.
• Always put your weight on your lower ski, as the lower ski dictates your direction and movement. Keep your arms wide and slightly in front of your body as you would when holding a large map.
• Don’t lean back (that’s a myth!) or you will lose control. Instead, keep your tips slightly up, stay centred and keep your core straight.
• Make sure you get into a rhythm of taking turns to help you take the energy from one turn into the next.
• Deep snow slows you down, so it is important to maintain speed. Otherwise, you will not be able to float to the surface between turns, making it difficult to initiate a change in direction.

Adhere to these ski tips, and you will be a master of powder skiing in no time!

Ski tip #2: How to work on your mogul skiing

Moguls are great fun and a real treat for advanced skiers. Make sure that you are fit for skiing as moguls really work your legs. The technique required for skiing moguls is very different from carving on a prepared piste:

• You need to narrow your stance and lean slightly forward, pushing with your shins on the front of the ski boot.
• Your core should remain stable, letting your legs absorb the bumps.
• Start at the top of the mogul, then turn around and into the bump.
• Keep your knees bent when you start on the mogul and stretch your legs when turning. Get into a rhythm.
• Focus on short turns to navigate the snow moguls and always put pressure on the edge of your skis.

Moguls come in many different sizes, spacings, and snow conditions, and piste gradients can vary greatly. Hence, it is best to start with smaller moguls on a red piste and then practise, practise, practise.

Ski tip #3: How to stay in control on icy, steep pistes

Ice is difficult to ski on, and not just beginner skiers panic at the sight (and the sound!) of an icy piste, especially when it is steep. In icy piste conditions, it is crucial that the edges of your skis are sufficiently sharpened to give you a good grip. Without sharp edges, it is literally impossible to master icy steep runs. And this is how you ski icy slopes:

• Start by bending your knees to lower your centre of gravity.
• Put pressure onto your edges to give you the best possible grip on the slippery ice.
• To ensure that you don’t lose balance, keep your skis wider than you would on a less steep slope and start at a slow pace.
• Try to control your speed to ensure that you can brake easily whenever needed.
• Take large turns to stay in control of your speed and take regular breaks if you feel you are getting tired and are losing your balance.
• Don’t panic!

Ski tip #4: How to navigate slushy snow conditions

As the snow warms in the sun, it turns from powdery and light to wet and heavy, acting as somewhat of a shock absorber. If you love skiing in the spring, it is inevitable that you will encounter slushy snow, especially on the lower slopes and as the day progresses. It might take a while to get used to the slush, and you will need to change your technique yet again, but once you master it, you will love it. Here are our top ski tips for Easter skiing:

• Tackle the piste by taking big round turns and be patient, as it takes longer for your skis to move in the heavy slushy snow.
• Keep your skis quite close together with equal weight on them, and keep your arms held out to maintain balance and stability.
• Always keep your body upright, don’t lean backwards, and make sure you are centred on your skis, again to ensure that you don’t lose balance.
• Use warm weather wax to ensure your skis run as smoothly as possible
• Slushy snow makes your leg muscles work much harder than perfect snow conditions, so ensure that you are fit and that your quads are in good shape before you hit the slopes in spring.

There are ups and downs to different snow conditions, but with our top ski tips, you can learn to master and love them all. Adapting and continuously improving your ski techniques depending on the snow conditions and using every opportunity to practise, is key to becoming an all-weather, all-mountain skier.

If you haven’t already booked your next ski break, have a look at our range of solo ski holidays and single parent ski holidays.

Gone are the days when mobility scooters were considered to be the prerogative of the elderly. Today, many younger people with mobility issues, including single parents and kids, see the benefits of this convenient method of transport. Whether you want to go shopping, visit the local park, or go on a holiday, a mobility scooter will give you much-needed independence and mobility. There are many benefits to using a mobility scooter:

1. Travelling and holidays

If you love travelling but are increasingly, or temporarily, struggling with your mobility, taking a mobility scooter along on holiday will give you or your child a new lease on life. Whether you and your family enjoy going to the countryside or the beach, with a scooter at hand, you will never feel fatigued or left out on single parent holidays. Most models can be dismantled or folded to fit into a car boot as small as a hatchback, so transport should not be an issue.

If you are planning to fly, all you need to do is notify the airline that you will be taking your scooter along. Naturally, make sure to check whether your model fits into the hold, as there may be weight and size restrictions. You can also inform the airline if you or your child need special assistance to improve your holiday experience. It’s no different to flying with a wheelchair, just slightly cooler!

2. Comfort and confidence

Life can be hard enough when you suffer from a condition that impacts your mobility. You surely don’t want to add to that by unnecessarily straining joints or muscles, especially if this causes you pain or discomfort. Exercise is a great way to improve mobility, but it has to be specific to an individual’s abilities.

A mobility scooter will not only bring new physical relief and comfort to your life; it will also increase your confidence. Where you might have been worried that you could not keep up with your kids, you can now rest assured that you can keep up with their skipping or even running to school—you can even carry their bags now. Best of all, you won’t be exhausted after a short trip out and can be there for your kids when you return home.

3. Safety of Mobility Scooters

Mobility scooters are very safe. They have a sturdy design and won’t tip over unless you speed around a sharp bend! Due to the stop-start mechanism with an inbuilt safety brake, it’s impossible to lose control of your scooter. Just remember that you are driving a moving vehicle and need to keep your eyes on the road (or pavement) at all times to avoid injuring others.

To get onto your mobility safely, always make sure it’s switched off and you have parked on flat ground with the brakes on. Sit down slowly, placing the feet on the footrests whilst holding on to the armrests. If you had an injury or are suffering from chronic knee pain, for example, you might wonder how to stay safe getting up with a bad knee from your scooter. Simply do the following: Put your feet flat on the ground while still seated. Using the armrests for support, gradually move your upper body weight forward until you are in a standing position.

4. Speed and all-terrain

Conventional mobility scooters can travel between 4 and 8 miles per hour depending on battery life. This is perfect for parents and older kids who aren’t able to move freely or walk unassisted. If your kids are very active, and you want to be able to keep up with them, a mobility scooter that performs at the upper end of that range is a pretty cool way to travel. Families who enjoy long walks can now do so together. Some scooters even master off-road terrain, so a day out in the countryside or at the beach with your kids is no longer off the cards for single parents with mobility issues.

5. Affordability

Contrary to what you might have heard, mobility scooters are very much affordable. In fact, they are generally cheaper than electric wheelchairs. And it is such a worthwhile investment if you, or your child, struggle to get around on foot: A scooter will improve your quality of life and give you or your kid flexibility and independence, which is a necessity when you are a single parent.

Having said that, if you don’t want to or cannot afford to buy, you can hire one for a reasonable monthly fee. Hiring a mobility scooter also means that you are covered for maintenance and repairs, so you do not have to worry about unexpected fees should it break down.

6. Mobility scooters for kids

Nothing is worse than seeing your kids suffer, be it because they are in pain or because they cannot join in any of their friends’ or family’s activities. If you have assessed that your child would benefit from owning a mobility scooter, you need to check the rules. If you are buying a Class 3 scooter, for example, your child needs to be 14 or over. The purpose of class 2 and class 3 scooters is very different. Generally speaking, Class 3 scooters are larger and more robust and for outdoor use on pavements and roads, whilst Class 2 scooters are lightweight indoor scooters with more basic controls. Naturally, the age limit is there to ensure that the people driving are safe and responsible when out on the roads or pavement.

7. Ease of use

If you think using a mobility scooter is tough, you’re wrong! Thanks to advances in technology and research, using a mobility scooter is as easy as playing with your child’s remote-control car. They are not difficult to operate and don’t require a driving license or the upper body strength needed for a manual wheelchair. With a bike-style steering wheel and simple controls, they are really easy to operate for adults and kids alike. All you need to remember is to keep your scooter charged so you don’t run out of battery halfway to your destination!

There are many benefits to using a mobility scooter. One thing is certain, though: They improve the life quality of both adults and children who might otherwise be housebound or at least very restricted in their movements.

With travel restrictions in place, people are itching to plan their next getaway. And there is no reason not to start planning your post-lockdown dream holiday now. For many British tourists Australia is high up on their list of dream destinations, but the sheer size of the country is intimidating. Where do you start and how do you get around, as a single parent family? One of the most convenient ways to get around and explore Australia is a road trip, which is not only in quintessential Aussie fashion but also makes for a cracking good time with kids. Here are some ideas for a road trip with kids in Australia to inspire your next single parent holiday.

Road Trip Tips for a Holiday with Kids

First things first, you will need a car as soon as you land. Luckily, there are plenty of car rental companies at your disposal at every major airport, so it should be no problem to find the perfect set of wheels for your holiday. If you are looking for a versatile car that is good for Australia’s open roads, desert sand and bush tracks, and comfortable for your family, then opt for a four-wheel drive, ute, or even a kombi to ride in style. If you haven’t taken out insurance for minor car dents during your road trip, you needn’t worry as you can use sites like DingGo to get a quote should you have been caught in a sticky situation, such as a kangaroo hitting your car.

Don’t forget that in Australia you might be travelling through National Parks that require permits, and also roads with tolls. Research the areas before you go so you can organise any permits and toll cards you might need because they change from state to state.

The Great Ocean Road, VIC

One of Australia’s most popular road trip destinations, The Great Ocean Road is a unique experience. You can self-drive the entire stretch in a day, but that won’t leave much time for sightseeing stops. So either give a little more time, or book one of the many Great Ocean Road tours on offer that usually start a short drive from Melbourne. If you self-drive, it’s best to drive east to west, so you get uninterrupted views of the sea. If you are travelling from Torquay to Allansford, there are many sights to see – from wonders of nature like The Twelve Apostles (now with only eight standing), to activities in towns along the way like wine tastings and chocolatier classes. During your road trip you can even park your vehicle and complete a section of the Great Ocean Walk, as the walk itself takes eight days to complete.

Route: 234 kilometres
Location: Torquay to Allansford.
Time: Recommended time is three days, or a six-day return road trip.
Sights: The Twelve Apostles, Port Campbell National Park, Loch Ard Gorge, Apollo Bay.

The Grand Pacific Drive

The Grand Pacific Drive is perfect for British tourists as well as Sydneysiders wanting a coastal getaway. Starting less than an hour away from the city in the Royal National Park, this road trip shows off some of the best coastal towns Australia has to offer. Travel across the iconic Sea Cliff Bridge to explore trendy Thirroul before heading down to Wollongong City, where we recommend spending a minimum one day and one night. Then travel to Kiama, where you can see the famous blowhole, and continue along the stunning seaside!

Route: 140 kilometres
Location: Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, Shoalhaven.
Time: Day trip or week-long trip to stop at various locations.
Sights: Royal National Park, Wattamolla lagoon, Sea Cliff Bridge, Illawarra escarpment area, Kiama Blowhole, Berry Tea Shop, Minamurra rainforest.

The Pacific Coast, NSW & QLD

The ultimate travel plan, the Pacific Coast road trip has something for everyone! Each destination along the way offers something unique, with beaches, local cafes boasting fresh produce, wineries, coastal walks, animal sanctuaries and theme parks, this is a great road trip with kids.

Route: 900 kilometres
Location: Sydney to Brisbane, including towns and cities in between, like Newcastle, the Hunter Valley, Port Stephens, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Ballina, Byron Bay, Lennox Head, Gold Coast.
Time: 1 – 2 weeks, potentially longer depending on how many locations are visited.
Sights: Bondi Beach, Hunter Valley wineries, Port Macquarie Koala Sanctuary, the Big Banana, Byron Bay Lighthouse, Movie World.

Brisbane to Cairns, QLD

If you completed the Pacific Coast road trip and wanted more, why not continue your travels north to lush Queensland? The weather is beautiful and perfect for exploring the crystal-clear waters of Noosa, various islands including Fraser and Whitsunday, completing bush walks and hikes, and snorkelling at The Great Barrier Reef. For a place to stay, try one of the caravan and holiday park with excellent facilities en route.

Route: 1,678 kilometres
Location: Brisbane, Noosa, Fraser Island, Rockhampton, Townsville, Whitsunday Islands, Magnetic Island, Cairns.
Time: At least a week and a half to allow for exploration of popular areas along the way.
Sights: Noosa National Park, Airlie Beach, Hamilton Island, Mission Beach, Daintree Rainforest, Cape Tribulation.

The Savannah Way, QLD & NT & WA

This beast of a road trip is perfect for those wishing to explore the Aussie outback in all its glory. Take in the natural beauty of both the bush and desert, enjoying stops along the way in rural communities. If you’re time poor, you can modify the road trip and complete half of the journey depending on your start location.

Route: 3,700 kilometres
Location: Cairns, QLD to Broome, WA
Time: This 45-hour road trip can be paced to your liking. Two weeks is the recommended travel time to allow for pit stops along the way. It takes 28 hours from Cairns to the NT border, and another 28 hours to Broome.
Sights: Millaa Millaa Falls, Undara Lava Tubes, Cobbold Gorge, Gulflander experience, Gregory River, Boodjamulla National Park (i.e. NT border), Nitmiluk National Park.

Red Centre Way, NT

Explore the heart of Australian Indigenous culture with the Red Centre Way road trip. Experience the desert like never before, including visiting the ancient site of Uluru. This road trip will be dusty, bring a big set of wheels and your Akubra, the practical Australian bush-hat, which you will have acquired by now!

Route: 1,135 kilometres
Location: Loop from Alice Springs, including Kata Tjuta, Watarrka, Tjoritja and Uluru.
Time: Recommended time needed up to six days, approximately 12-hour drive for the total loop.
Sights: Simpsons Gap, Tjoritja West MacDonnell Ranges, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Rainbow Valley.

West Coast Drive, WA

The West coast of Australia is often forgotten about with the East coast favoured (thanks, Sydney!) but it is just as worth exploring. This whopper road trip is great if you have two weeks to spare, going through the dusty outback and small Aussie towns. Go swimming with sharks, camp in the desert, and see the famous sand dunes before relaxing in easy Perth.

Route: 2,230 kilometres
Location: Broome to Perth
Time: Recommended road trip time of minimum 14 days. Approximately 24 hours total driving time.
Sights: Karijini National Park, Exmouth, Coral Bay, Shark Bay, Kalbarri National Park, Hutt Lagoon, Jurien Bay, Nambung National Park, Lancelin Sand Dunes.

Great Eastern Drive, TAS

Explore one of Australia’s hidden gems, Tasmania. The island state off the coast of Victoria is not to be missed. You can catch a boat from Melbourne to Tasmania, with your car in tow as well! The Great Eastern Drive is a popular route to experience the Tasmanian coast, with gorgeous sights to see and luxury local produce to eat along the way.

Route: 176 kilometres
Location: Hobart, Port Arthur, Orford, Triabunna, Swansea, Bicheno, Scamander, St Helens.
Time: Recommended road trip time is 7 days, although with limited stops this road trip could be completed in a few days.
Sights: Bay of Fires, Freycinet National Park, Pyengana Valley, Maria Island, Wineglass Bay.

So, now you have a range of itineraries to choose from or even combine, good luck deciding which road trip suits you and the kids best! One thing is certain, no matter where you decide to go in Australia, you and the kids will have the holiday of a lifetime.

About Single Parents on Holiday:

We are a niche tour operator providing holidays for singles parent families as well as singles ski holidays. Our single parent holidays include beach, activity and farm holidays in the UK and abroad as well as city trips. Our holidays for solo travellers currently include mostly solo ski holidays for single parent empty nesters, and anyone else who lacks a travel partner or ski buddy.

Explore on your doorstep with these incredible experiences…

Let’s be honest – 2020 wasn’t a fun year which means there’s a lot of pressure on 2021 to be good. Thankfully, things are starting to look up as the world is collectively trying to look past the gloom and doom and get back to normality.

With Great Britain being as diverse as it is, and holidaying closer to home being the new fashion, why not take the kids on day trips or weekend breaks this summer? From hiking through enchanted forests to stargazing in vibrant national parks, you will find plenty of incredibly cool things to do in the UK both with kids and without.

So, without further ado, let’s dive in and explore!

Paddle boarding

A brilliant way to combine exercise and the great outdoors, paddle boarding has gained a lot of popularity over the last decade. Stand-up paddle boarding, or SUP, is a novel to get fit and see new places whilst enjoying the beauty of nature. It’s the new quad biking, except it’s on water and you have to be standing up while cruising the waves. As one of the fastest growing water sports in the UK, SUP experiences can now be found across cities in the UK as visitors drink in the panoramic views from the UK’s pretty waterways. Whether it’s a meandering forested river in the Wye Valley, a circumnavigation of Burgh island off the Devon coast, or riding the rapids of the River Tay in Scotland, you can find paddle boarding destinations all across the UK.

Stargazing

Night skies in the UK are a view to behold and a really cool thing to do with the kids when they are old enough to stay up a bit. Teaching your kids about astronomy and looking for constellations in the sky is a fun and exciting experience.

Did you know that the South Downs National Park has been awarded Dark Sky Reserve status? It is one of only 16 places in the world that’s considered perfect for stargazing, making it both rare and exceptionally beautiful. But stargazing festivals can also be found elsewhere in the UK: There is an annual festival in Exmoor and the North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales Fringe Festival, both scheduled for the end of October 2021.

Stargazing is a unique experience that you and the kids will reminisce about for years to come. So, if you’ve never been, expect a panoramic adventure of a lifetime – no less!

Wine tours

The popularity of English wines has been growing steadily over the last few decades as growers and producers have built on their understanding of the UK’s unique and at times challenging climate to get the best out of British vineyards. Today, English wines are well-known for picking up accolades at world wine awards and festivals. So, if you love your wine, and want to explore some homegrown grapes, why not visit some of the UK’s famous vineyards on one of your next days out with friends? You can book fabulous wine tasting tours all over the country, from Chapel Down Vineyard in Kent to Holmfirth Vineyard in Yorkshire.

Visit Nottingham Castle

Nottingham is surrounded by the Sherwood Forest in the north, best known for the legend of Robin Hood, which mentions the Nottingham Castle. One of the UK’s largest and most coveted regeneration projects, Nottingham Castle, is reopening to tourists on 21 June. Having undergone a £30 million redevelopment, the castle has undergone renovations allowing visitors to live and see a thousand years of history unfolding right in front of them. Plus, they can also experience the legend of Robin Hood. The brand-new transformations include exhibitions and games educating you about the history of Nottingham, including a Robin Hood Adventure complete with interactive gaming spaces, where you can fire digital longbows as you outwit the tyrannical Sheriff in a Golden Arrow archery competition. It is expected to be the most popular castle and museum to be visited in 2021.

Nottingham castle is situated right in the city centre, and there is plenty more to do in this beautiful city the River Trent. Underneath the city centre, you will find caves dating back to Anglo Saxon times. Nottingham thrived on the lace industry in the 19th century leading to the historic quarter-mile area called the Lace Market, which is still a popular and stylish part of the city. The Old Market Square is one of the largest of its kind in Europe and a focal point of Nottingham. If your kids are getting a little bored of history and all things Robin Hood, you could book a VR Escape Room experience, such as Alice in Wonderland, Jungle Quest or Escape the Lost Pyramid.

Renowned Roman Baths

The historic city of Bath, some two hours west of London, is widely considered one of the best places to visit in England for its rich history and heritage as much as its contemporary culture. It is possibly best known for its famous Roman baths, which have some exceptionally well-preserved features. You can take a tour of the historic site and discover 2000 years of history, including how the Romans kept clean and socialised in the baths. History comes alive here, so kids will be equally fascinated by this beautiful site.

Today bathing is no longer possible at the site, but you can experience Bath’s natural hot springs at the Thermae Bath Spa instead.

(Almost) tropical islands

The UK isn’t exactly known for its warm climate, but thanks to the Gulf Stream, which brings warm water from the Caribbean to North West Europe, the UK has comparably warm weather and mild winters, especially in the South. So, if you fancy a staycation and are after a beach holiday, much of the coast of Dorset, Devon and Cornwall with their many golden sandy beaches and palm trees will fit the bill.

If it’s tropical vibes you long for, then the Scilly Isles, a unique and remarkable archipelago just 30 miles off the coast of Cornwall will be right up your street. These wonderful islands will give you that holiday feeling – from the sunny weather to the warm water, to the relaxing pace of life.

If you stay on Tresco island, you should visit the subtropical Abbey Gardens, a lush oasis of exotic flowers and plants, including Echiums to giant palm trees. From the moment you step foot on the little island, you’ll realise that it’s one of the most beautiful and tranquil places you will ever visit.

To sum things up…

There are so many fun things to do in the UK that are truly unique, one short blog really can never do it justice, but it’s a good starting point, nevertheless. Let us know if you have been or are going to one of these unique places we mentioned – we would love to hear about your adventure!

About the author:

Single Parents on Holiday is a niche tour operator specialising in single parent holidays. We also offer trips for single parents and solo travellers who want to get away without kids, as well as single parent dating and life coaching for single parents.

How you can travel the world from home.

Parents have had a lot on their plate during the COVID pandemic. From home schooling the kids to needing to find ways to entertain them at home and at home only. Free online activities for kids were a life saver, especially for single parents, who didn’t get a break as they juggled full-time jobs, home schooling, chores, preparing meals, and more. But what if you have the travel itch? With no means to escape the humdrum of everyday life during the pandemic, many travel lovers turned to daydreaming about their next family holiday. But you can do more to pass the time until travel is back on: Put your pennies aside to plan your post-lockdown dream holiday, and, in the meantime, take the kids and travel the world virtually from your living room:

Go on a virtual museum tour

Museums are entertaining for both kids and parents, and of course they are free in the UK. So, when COVID hit, and museums closed due to lockdowns and safety precautions, many parents wondered how to keep their kids educated and entertained at the same time.

Luckily, many museums stepped up their game to offer families an online experience, so that you can take your kids to visit museums around the world online. From the Museum of London to the Guggenheim Museum in New York, you can take the kids to see famous sights virtually, participate in fun educational activities, and view rare art collections. Best of all, everything is completely free and doesn’t involve traipsing around from exhibit to exhibit with moaning kids. You just choose what you want to see and do and take breaks whenever you wish.

Take a virtual cruise

Nothing is more liberating than going on a cruise. The feel of the sea breeze, the beauty of the ocean, and best of all, the complimentary food: Cruises are a favourite of many travel lovers. And although they may have been forced to take a backseat during COVID, that doesn’t mean you can’t experience a cruise virtually. All you need is a great internet provider and you can set sail from the comfort of your own home!

Some ocean liners are currently offering virtual cruises. Most of these virtual cruises are free and involve walking around the cruise ship, watching on board performances, taking online cooking classes (more on that later), and even exploring certain parts of the world!

You can start and stop a virtual cruise at any time, so they are an excellent option for busy parents with little time on their hands.

Travel the world through your taste buds

Many legendary chefs, such as American journalist Anthony Bourdain, dedicated their life to experiencing and documenting the foods of other cultures. To them, food was one of the best ways to experience other cultures, and to get out of your local bubble. While you may not be seeing beautiful vistas, learning a dish popular in another country is a great way to experience that culture in a way only food can provide. Fortunately for those of you who love cooking, there are many free (and paid) options for international cooking classes. No matter what you want to cook, there is an online class out there for it.

For those who love their food but have no interest in acquiring new cooking skills, there is still plenty to choose from. Some of the best foodie and travel shows this year include The Mind of a Chef, where celebrity chefs trace dishes back to their country of origin. If you want to stay closer to home, you could look into Joanna Lumley new Home Sweet Home series or Frankie Boyle’s Tour of Scotland

Find the best travel shows on TV

If you are a busy single parent, you may not have the time or energy for learning new recipes or going on virtual museum tours. Sometimes, all you want to do is sit down and watch something on screen. And that’s ok. There are plenty of documentaries and travel shows that will satisfy your urge to travel the world, at least for the time being.

One good pick is “The Americas with Simon Reeve”, which showcases Simon Reeves as he travels through North and South America – something that seems impossible to do now thanks to travel restrictions. BBC’s “Across the World” is another good choice, showcasing couples and family members working together to race through Latin America. Classics such as David Attenborough’s Planet Earth series can be watched on BBC iPlayer and is a great one for both kids and adults. It’s absolutely fascinating and you will both learn plenty of new facts about species in no less than 64 different countries.

If you find that a travel show, you like is only available in certain regions, there is a simple trick: Use VPN to change your location. Here is how to get a free VPN trial.

Explore the world with Google

If TV isn’t your thing, why not show the kids the world through 3D rendering? With Google Earth, for example, you can travel the world by looking at satellite renders anywhere you wish. And while the quality of Google Earth can be so-so depending on your internet connection and where you’re looking, it is a fabulous time waster and can help drown out any persistent travel withdrawal symptoms. At the very least, Google Earth will entertain and educate the kids!

If Google Earth isn’t up your alley, there are plenty of other options. Google’s Arts and Culture site has partnered up with more than 500 cultural institutions to offer virtual trips around art galleries, prehistoric caves and more from the safety and comfort of your home. Even the kids will be fascinated by the high-resolution images and well-made virtual tours of some of the attractions.

There are so many sites dedicated to bringing the world to your doorstep. All you need to do is dedicate some time to these sites. And while a 360-degree video may not be as immersive as being at the location in person, it is a worthy substitution. Just because you and your children are stuck at home, does not mean you can’t go out and explore all that the world has to offer. Whether you take the kids on a virtual tour of the Smithsonian or the Great Wall of China, know that there are plenty of ways to escape your home without leaving it.

The Best Accessories for Your Driving Holiday

Is there anything better than a long road trip? Somehow the air just smells sweeter the second you pull out of your driveway and head out on the open road. The memories you make on a good road trip will last a lifetime. And if you love driving, you will be looking forward to your next holiday on the road as soon as you have returned from your last. If you’re planning a road trip right now, have a look at these auto accessories that will come in useful on your next long driving holiday.

Rooftop Cargo Carriers

Even if your vehicle can carry a lot of cargo, there never seems to be enough space once you start packing for a road trip. If you usually go on solo holidays, then of course you can travel with your car filled to the brim. But if  you are bringing friends or family and will be spending hours in the car, it’s not such a good idea. This is where rooftop cargo carriers are so convenient. They allow you to bring more along for the ride, and at the same time free up space inside making the drive safer and more comfortable for everyone.

Bike Racks

Whether your destination is a rural campsite or a big city, a bike will always come in handy on holiday. Exploring the camp site or scooting around a new city is always easier if you have a bike or motorized bicycle at your disposal. But instead of letting your bike take up precious trunk space, why not carry it on your rear hitch or with trunk straps? Keeping your bikes and your vehicle safe and scratch free is easy -if you buy a decent bike carrier, designed to keep your bike and your vehicle in great shape.

Floor Mats and Liners

For most people, a long road trip means lots of food stops and lots of trips to gas stations. When you drink and eat on the go, some crumbs and spills will, no doubt, end up on the floor, especially when you travel solo and don’t have a passenger helping to unwrap that sandwich. Unlike the memories of your road trip, the stains from your lunch shouldn’t last a lifetime, however. With all-weather floor mats you can protect the carpeting of your vehicle from food stains, dirty shoes and spilled morning coffee. Once you return from your trip, just hose the mats off in your yard, and they’ll be as good as new.

Car Seat Covers

Aside from damaging your vehicle’s floors, spills from drinks and food can also result in damage to your vehicle’s seats. And if you happen to be doing any walking or hiking on your trip, you can also carry dirt, dust, and debris from your walks into your vehicle and this can stain and damage your vehicle’s seats. Having custom-fit seat covers is an excellent way to protect your car seats and ensure the longevity of your vehicle’s interior. These can also add a stylish flair to your vehicle because you could go for high-quality neoprene seat covers that match the colour scheme of your interior.

Pet Accessories for your Road Trip

One of the best things about a road trip is that it’s very easy to bring dogs along. But what some dog don’t understand is that driving is serious business. Jumping in your lap and licking your face is fine when you’re on the couch, but when you’re on the road it’s a different story. With pet barriers you can ensure your dog is comfortable in your cargo area, but not able to leap over the rear seats to run wild around the cabin. If you haven’t yet invested in a pet barrier, make sure you have seat covers to protect your vehicle from pet paws, scratches and more. Custom-made seat covers offer a custom fit, so they will look like a professional re-upholstery job.

Cargo Liners

Much like floor mats, cargo liners protect your trunk’s floor from damage and are a good investment to protect your vehicle’s value and ultimately save you money on your solo holiday. Multiple stops at hotels and Airbnbs mean a lot of loading and unloading. Moving your luggage and other belongings around and in and out of your trunk can result in scuffs and damage to your trunk’s floor. Having a custom-fit cargo liner is an excellent solution for preserving this part of your vehicle.

With a little bit of planning ahead, you can take your upcoming road trip to the next level. These auto accessories will surely help enhance your driving experience and protect your vehicle’s value. Before you head out on the open road, consider whether you will want to invest in a few of these products. Just beware, the more fun you have on a road trip, the more likely you are to plan another one and soon! Whatever you do, drive safely, and have fun out there.

I can hear you say, it’s impossible to do Crete in a week! And you are right. After all, it is the largest of the Greek islands and you would be best advised to spend at least two full weeks there to see everything this beautiful and multi-dimensional island in the Mediterranean has to offer. But money and time are precious for those working all year round, so sometimes I don’t want to blow either on a single holiday. So, if you only have one week, like I did, you could focus on one region only, for example either the eastern or western part of the island. In my case, I focused on Western Crete:

West Crete in 7 days: my itinerary

I chose to visit West Crete, because you can fly to Chania airport, where I was able to hire a car and drive into Chania town in just 15 to 20 minutes to find my pre-booked accommodation. It was super convenient and proved a great starting place to see some of  the best of Crete for a solo traveller like myself. I often go on singles holidays as I enjoy company on holiday, but this time I chose to travel by myself and stay in Chania, which proved to be the perfect base for visiting the many attractions Western Crete has to offer.

Day 1: Tersanas Beach & Chania

Tersanas Beach was my first destination and a perfect introduction to the splendid crystal-clear waters of Crete. I enjoyed exquisite pork souvlaki (skewers) in a small Greek tavern right on the seaside – a lovely way to sample authentic Greek cuisine. Later that night, I  headed out for an evening in Chania, perhaps one of the most fascinating cities in Western Crete but also famous for a lively nightlife.

Day 2: Elafonisi & Chrisoskalitissa Monastery

Certainly, the most famous beach on the Island of Crete, the lagoon of Elafonisi is a gem to be admired, albeit no longer a secret one. The sand is pink, the water is a deep hue of turquoise and the atmosphere is one of utter calm and serenity – that is, if you don’t go in peak season! Naturally, the water is wonderfully warm in the shallow waters so if you are travelling with kids, it’s the perfect place to be. I have been to many remote beaches, including the Caribbean, but nothing even comes close to this picture-perfect place. One downside: Getting there is not easy, whether you take the mountain route, the coastal route, or the bendy, narrow road I took from Chania.

On the way back to my accommodation I stopped to visit the Panagia Chrisoskalitissa Monastery. The fortress-like nunnery is perched on a rock high above the sea and has a timeless charm about it. According to legend, the nuns hid the monastery’s gold under one of the 98 steps of the staircase at the entrance to the monastery when the Ottomans conquered Crete. And this “golden step” is what gave the monastery its name.

Day 3: Falasarna Beach and ruins

Just 50 minutes west of Chania you will find the harbour town of Falasarna with its expanse of unspoilt white sandy beaches, pretty coves, and simply stunning blue and turquoise waters. The beauty of the beaches here is second to none! The main beach of Falasarna is wide and windy. I hired a deckchair and parasol and had my lunch and drinks delivered by a boy on a quad bike! If you get bored at the beach, which seems unlikely, you could wander off to see the imposing ruins of ancient Falasarna at the north of the beach.

Day 4: Rethymno and Arkadi Monastery

Driving along the pretty north coast of Crete is quite enjoyable especially when the oleander along the coastal road is in full bloom. So, I didn’t mind the one-hour drive to Rethymno, a picturesque coastal town with a maze of cobbled alleyways. The impressive fortress with wonderful views across the sea towers above the town, and the equally pretty harbour with its honey- coloured lighthouse and inviting cafés and restaurants directly at the seafront.

Just over 20 minutes’ drive away, you will find one of the most important monuments of Crete, the Arkadi Monastery. The monastery is believed to have been erected by an Arkadian monk in the 12^th century and, built on a high plateau, is a picture of fierceness and beauty. Today, the cracked walls of this ancient building are filled with local kitties who stand guard over the sacred memories of hundreds who died refusing to submit to Ottoman rule.

On my way back to Chania, I stopped at Souda Bay War Cemetery, the final resting place of the soldiers who died in Crete during the Second World War, including 1527 graves of Commonwealth soldiers.

Day 5: Stavros Beach and the Agia Triada Tzagarolon Monastery

Only 25 minutes from Chania, on the Akrotiri peninsula, Stavros beach was easy for me to get to and made for a relaxing day with little driving. It is famous for the ominous red mountain that towers over the deep blue sea and sandy cove below making for a somewhat peculiar sight. Its other claim to fame is the fact that a scene of “Zorba the Greek” starring Anthony Hopkins was filmed here in 1964. Visitors from all over the worlds still flock to Stavros beach for this reason today.

On my way home, I decided to pay a visit to the Monastery of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity), which is one of the most impressive and beautiful monasteries on the island. Its distinctive façade has Doric columns and elements of Renaissance architecture. Today, it is one of the most important monasteries in Crete, and has a huge influence on education in the island.

Day 6: Chania Town

After travelling around so much, I decided to spend a day on the sunny streets of Chania, with its colourful paved pedestrianised streets. Here you will find quaint little shops, traditional tavernas and cats at every turn. I indulged in Greek pastries and picked up a few pretty souvenirs on the way. I the evening, I headed to Daliani Street. Travelling solo can make meeting people more difficult or easier depending on where you are and how open you appear. I knew I had a good chance of meeting friendly locals here and striking up some interesting conversations and I wasn’t wrong – the Cretans are so friendly, they will not let you sit in their bar all by yourself.

Day 7: Balos Lagoon

I saved the best for last! After having been to Elafonisi, I was pretty hooked on seeing another lagoon – but without the difficult drive. So, I chose to take the coastal road to Kissamos port and boarded one of Blue Daily Cruises to Balos. The speedy ferry ride was very enjoyable, especially the panoramic views. Balos Lagoon has water that shimmers in turquoise, vivid blue and white whilst the sand is pink in places, similar to that in Elafonisi.

What’s special about Balos Lagoon is the rare flora and fauna. Many birds feed and breed here, both native and migrating species.

I hope I was able to give you some interesting facts and insights about Crete from my solo trip. Of course, Crete is not just beaches and monasteries. The people are welcoming, the food is exquisite, there is plenty else to do. I purposefully did not visit the famous Samaria Canyon as it’s a bit of a drive from Chania and by the time I had arrived, I would have experienced the canyon in stifling mid-day heat. For me, I much prefer the serenity and architecture of the beautiful monasteries and the Caribbean like beaches of Western Crete. And I will definitely be back!

Dogs have been beloved family pets for thousands of years as countless tomb paintings, ancient artefacts and texts reveal. No one can pinpoint exactly when the hound was domesticated, but we are certain that it was the first tame animal to live with humans. History also shows that dogs were not only used to help with hunting, guarding, carrying, and herding but also satisfied the human need for companionship, unconditional love, and affection.

In today’s society, we need our canine friends more than ever to keep us physically and mentally healthy, help us be more sociable, and teach our children valuable life lessons. Dogs are one of the best family pets to choose especially in our busy society. There are so many benefits of owning a dog, that we would like to share some of them with you here.

Dogs provide companionship

We know dogs as “man’s best friend”. When we come home, they’re excited to see us, and 99% of us talk to them like they are a member of the family. During the pandemic, many singles acquired a dog to provide companionship as they suddenly spent all day working from home, rarely having a reason to leave the house, and often suffering mentally from the lack of human interaction. Equally, families found that COVID was the perfect time to introduce a pet to their kids, bringing the family closer together and providing endless hours of entertainment and distraction for both parents and children.

But even in normal times, our relationship with our pooch can sometimes be more consistent and reliable than our relationship with other humans. We include dogs in our daily routine and in many leisure activities, from walks around the neighbourhood or the local park, to hiking and camping. Dogs can become enmeshed in many aspects of our lives. Many of us even choose dog-friendly holidays to make sure we can take our furry friends along.

Dogs keep us physically fit and healthy

Dogs help us increase our level of physical activity and provide other health benefits. As our canine companions need to be walked regularly, we are forced to go out in the fresh air, even when it is raining or blowing a gale. Dog owners also choose leisure activities that includes their furry friend, such as long hikes through the countryside.

Personally, I know that I would be far less likely to go on a walk or hike if it wasn’t for our family dog. She knows which shoes and trousers are for walking and hiking and goes insane for me to put her harness on when she knows we’re going out. Having that excitement is part of what gets me out the door in the first place.

A Liverpool study into the benefits of owning a dog, specifically the association between dog ownership and physical activity levels, concluded that dog owners are more likely to meet physical activity guidelines than people who don’t own a hound. They walk around 200 minutes more per week than people who don’t have dogs. Whether we’re walking, running, hiking, or just throwing a ball in the back garden, having a dog means we are more active in our daily lives.

Petting a pooch can also help to calm and relax us at the end of a stressful day. Studies show that petting your dog can lower blood pressure more than talking with someone about our day. Maybe it’s because dogs don’t talk back; they just listen!

Dogs make us more sociable

Yes, owning a dog makes you more sociable! Because our pets are often the reason we have conversations with others, they help improve both our and our children’s social skills. Our family recently moved to a new neighbourhood, and it was because of our family pet that we quickly befriended our neighbours. A dog is a great conversation starter, and you instantly feel you have something in common when you meet other dog owners out and about. Kids love to run over to stroke our pet, and other adults walking their doggies stop for a chat.

Dogs not only help us meet other humans, but they also can help improve our overall social skills. Sometimes, when we don’t know what to talk about, our pooch can be a conversational starting point and make us more approachable. Dogs also bring us together to socialize in spots popular with dog walkers.

Dogs’ impact on our mental health

Naturally, our lives aren’t all leisure and  holidays. Most people find everyday life stressful, and this is where a dog can have a calming and de-stressing influence, just like solo holidays with other adults in the same situation. Regular interaction with your dog helps to reduce anxiety naturally caused by the many stressors of modern life.

Stress and anxiety levels

Studies have shown that many single parents experience high levels of chronic stress, loneliness, and depression. Reducing parenting stress is key to raising happy and confident kids and creating a calm and peaceful home environment. It is known that dogs can balance out our cortisol and oxytocin levels. Balancing cortisol means we are less likely to suffer from anxiety, restless sleep, memory loss, lack of concentration, and depression. Increasing oxytocin levels, on the other hand, not only help to lower our stress and anxiety levels, but they can also help us to improve our communication skills at work and at home.

Happiness hormones and depression

The therapeutic value of petting a dog has increasingly been recognised by doctors treating depression. Just five minutes of hugging a hound triggers oxytocin release, which together with another hormone called vasopressin, helps to modulate how we react to stress and social situations. It also disperses dopamine, boosting your mood and giving you a sense of pleasure and wellbeing.

By spending more time outdoors, we also receive a higher dosage of Vitamin D through sun exposure, which can help with treating depression.

Dogs and children

Research suggests that babies who grow up with pets have a lower risk of developing allergies, and that growing up with dogs can help decrease the risk of childhood asthma. But these are not the only benefits of owning a dog for children.

Pets provide a point of comfort contact for kids. Children who grow up in small families, with a single parent and no siblings for example, often feel less lonely growing up with a family pet such as a dog. Research also indicates that children with pets are less likely to suffer from childhood anxiety and depression, which carries over into adulthood. A family dog also increases a child’s emotional and social health.

Last but not least, owning a dog can teach children valuable life lessons. The very first household chore my daughter had was to water and feed the dog every day. Much later, the first death she experienced was the death of our canine family member. Here are some of the skills that children can learn from having a family dog:

• Responsibility: Feeding, watering, taking the hound out when it needs to go, and regularly walking the dog can teach children how to be more responsible.
• Empathy: Learning to understand a dog helps a child to try to understand and look out for the needs of others.
• Patience: Helping to train a dog is an excellent way for a child to learn patience with others.
• Loss: A dog’s short life can prepare a child for bigger life losses.
• Self-esteem: Having an animal that provides a child with unconditional love can be a positive self-esteem boost for a child.

A Final Thought on the Benefits of Owning a Dog

It’s important to consider all aspects of introducing a canine friend to your family, such as the cost of owning a dog and the time it will take out of your probably already busy schedule. All things considered, we think that with all the benefits of a family dog, its worth is quite simply priceless. Writer and photographer Roger Caras said, “Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.”

Helpful tips for single parents who want to get back into dating.

Single parents often contemplate dating again at some point but approach the idea with hesitance. Dating as a single parent presents more hurdles, such as deciding if, and when, to introduce your children, or even simply finding the time or childcare to allow yourself the opportunity. But many stresses of single parenthood can be counterbalanced by some love, support, and romance. Chances are you may find pursuing love again to be rewarding.

Dating as a parent doesn’t have to be so daunting. If you are open to the idea of a romantic relationship, but are hesitant to actively date, continue reading for some tips on how to re-enter the dating scene after a long pause. : We’ll walk you through the essential steps to start dating again and help you feel more confident in finding a new partner.

Make a list of your must-have qualities

When you head back into single parent dating, try making a list of your non-negotiable, must-have qualities in a partner. When people return to the dating scene after a long break, they have the tendency to view new potential partners through “rose-coloured glasses,” and fall in love with potential, rather than reality. This is completely normal because a new partner is exciting! But that excitement allows you to tolerate things you normally may not. Make a list and stick to it! It’s also a great idea to eventually get second opinions about your date from friends or family. Normally, those closest to you can view things from a more objective point of view. They might be able to judge better than you if your love interest is compatible because they’re not swayed by attraction or charisma. This list should ideally be a list of personality and practical traits, rather than physical preferences.

Do something for yourself

You may find yourself needing a confidence boost when you re-enter the dating scene. Put yourself first and invest in something that will bring you confidence so that you can put your best self forward when dating. Popular options are updating your wardrobe or trying a new fitness routine or challenge—when you look your best, you may also feel your best! Furthermore, you can tackle any lingering insecurities like wrinkles, blemishes, or male pattern baldness. Dating is all about confidence, so upgrading your look and dealing with your insecurities is a great way to boost your self-esteem. If you are not sure where to start with self-care, consider asking an honest friend for advice!

Let people know you have children

Be open and honest. Lying to your date about being a parent is a big dating mistake that could lead to trust issues. It’s best to be open about your lifestyle from the beginning. For example, if you mention that you are a parent in your dating profile, you will immediately eliminate people that are not serious or open to the idea of kids in their life. This saves you a lot of time, effort, and potential heartbreak. If it limits your matches or causes dating to take a little more time, then so be it! Your matches will be so much more compatible the more you reveal about yourself upfront.

Have a plan for introducing your kids

This is often the biggest source of dating stress for single parents, especially those of younger children who may fear abandonment. Everyone’s situation is different, so it’s difficult to offer blanket advice that’s appropriate for every single parent family. Some people decide to introduce dates right away to their children and be very open and honest with them, while others decide to not introduce a date until it becomes a relationship they envision with more permanence. There are many ways to come to a decision about introducing your children while dating, but whatever you are considering, it’s best to have a plan that you can depend on so that it relieves any ruminating thoughts about how dating may affect your children.

Let your friends and family know

For many, it’s a big step to put yourself out there again. It can feel awkward since you may feel you don’t fit in with the dating scene anymore or you’ve been far removed for so long. But letting your friends and family know you’re open to trying dating again can give them the opportunity to keep their eyes out for potential matches in their circle of acquaintances. The reason this is so important is that even though dating apps or websites are the starting point for most people, dating through mutual acquaintances feels more natural and is less intimidating than with a stranger. Ask your friends or family to look out for potential matches for you or invite you to happy hour with their friends or colleagues. This is a very comfortable and fun way to gradually step your way back into dating and meeting new people.

Try a video date

On the other hand, there are many benefits to online dating for single parents, especially during a pandemic. You can vet a person by talking to them before committing to a first date, and thanks to technology and COVID, video calls before a first date have become extremely common. A video call is a great idea because it takes the pressure off single parents who may require a babysitter for a night out, plus it is a low cost and low effort way to get back out there. Finally, it is much easier to leave a date you don’t like after a polite exchange on the screen, than during drinks, or even a meal out.

Continue to make time for friends

Being a single parent is a lot to juggle, but avoid letting your friendships fall to the wayside, even if you just connect with your friends via text or phone call. It’s so important to continue your friendships while dating. Friends can provide a lot of relief and support for you. They may even be able to offer valuable dating advice or offer to watch your children so you can go on a date. Good friendships also allow you to not become so attached to a partner because you have support in another area of your life.

Be patient

Dating is a process that should be enjoyed. Many singles tend to jump into dating with the end goal of a relationship in mind, but dating can take some time so you might as well enjoy the process of meeting new people and learning new things. It is an experience, after all, so remain patient, enjoy it, learn from your dating mistakes, and wait for that special someone that is, no doubt, out there for you.

No matter how much you love your kids, single parenthood is tough. Allow yourself a break from parenting every once in a while.  Finding romance can be an extremely fulfilling endeavour, and a supportive partner will ultimately alleviate the difficulties and stresses of single parenthood and bring much joy to your life.  And don’t worry if you feel uncertain or anxious at the thought of dating again – it’s completely normal.