I’m quite sure this will have more resonance once we have conquered China. But as I brace myself for an experience like no other I thought I would delve deep and remind myself of the many successful excursions we have had to other foreign countries, and hopefully help a few others along the way.

Travelling to a non-English speaking country can be a little daunting, but sometimes the enormous difference in culture can be just as uncomfortable. Travelling with children to a foreign country is not for the faint-hearted, but an incredible experience you will be sure to remember for the rest of your life.
It can be incredibly challenging, especially if you don’t plan for the obstacles that are thrown in your path. But having an awareness of what may surface an be very reassuring.
Having a translating app or a book really is a necessity for survival. Communicating via a game of charades isn’t very comedic especially when you are late, trying to find the train station, but find yourself lost (I have done that far too many times!). That look of confusion and the shake of a head from a complete stranger you have begged to become your miracle English speaking guardian angel is also not going to be the highlight of your vacation, so a little piece of translating technology could bring great joy.

When I was younger, and without two monkeys who take up most of my time, I would go to a local bookstore and sit down with two or three guidebooks about the destination I was visiting next. I now have a bookcase full of guidebooks on various destinations, and I still make a lot of time to invest in researching the next city I am about to visit. I find myself fascinated by some of the local attractions, often because I, before reading about them, never knew they existed.

I was told many years ago, before visiting France, that French people are very welcoming if you attempt to speak a little French. But I can say that is usually the case for any non-English speaking country. It is very helpful to learn how to say some basics in their language such as hello, goodbye, thank you and excuse me. It is usually very welcomed if your kids also know how (or can attempt) to say a few basic words as well.

I travelled to Madrid a while back but as I had got on just fine in many European countries without really knowing much I was completely caught by surprise when I found myself battling to communicate. I had the Madrid lonely planet travel guide – I rarely travel without first purchasing their latest edition for the city I am going to. Luckily it had a few basic Spanish phrases, but even that did not help much, I was astounded by the lack of English spoken, and surprised by my ignorance of actually expecting it. I have since worked out my sense of entitlement for communication in my national language before adventuring to foreign countries.

Children on board will take a little more planning, rather than if you were by yourself. Don’t be put off by this extra hurdle though. Sometimes having children on board can break the barrier of culture difference much more so than if you were alone. They can bring joy and laughter in times of awkwardness or difficulty, so rather than focusing on the extra stops you must now make along the way, or the 50 diapers, bottles, snacks and changes of clothes you now have to lug around, instead, be brave and expect the joy they will bring, sometimes when it is most needed.

A few more tips to help you dive into that international vacation

Pack snacks. Children need snacks much more readily than adults, and a familiar food from home can ward off cranky and unsettling times. When you are travelling to a foreign country it can be hard to find something a child will eat, as quite often it is unfamiliar food, which can be rather rudely confused as ‘yucky’ to a child.
Have a mini medical box on hand. Plasters, sunblock, ibuprofen, and anything else you think you may need if you or your child has an unfortunate stumble or accident. A local pharmacy may not be around the corner or understand your requests.
A medical box us handy, but just in case something more serious takes place make sure you research local doctors or hospitals that are English speaking.
Cash. Obviously, you will need money overseas but carrying cash rather than a credit card is often pertinent in a foreign country, especially for the smaller shops or stalls.
Take along a good supply of wet wipes and hand sanitizer. Need I say more
Invest in a small stroller, if you have a toddler, that can easily fit in a taxi, small shops, and if thrown about a bit. Most large department stores stock cheapest strollers that are great for travel.
Consider purchasing a children’s tracking device. I haven’t actually used one before, but I have had them come highly recommended and I am currently researching the best ones to buy. An alarm goes off when your child is a certain distance away and it also tracks your child’s movements, making it easy to find them if they get lost. Once I have tested one of these high tech babies out I will write a thorough review.