As the fanatic traveling family that we are, opportunities are awaiting for our decent. I’m the planner of the family, and always looking for the next opportunity. Last year, we took a last minute, quickly planned trip to Cartagena, Colombia as a family of 6. It was a FANTASTIC experience! Here to tell it all to you!

Why Colombia

It was right after the high of COVID-19 pandemic and the traveling regulations were easing up. Consequently, we were all eager to jump back into a plane and explore a new location. I really enjoyed the cleanliness and the fact that even the most desire locations were not as packed and chaotic as before the Pandemic. So, I took advantage of the opportunity that was presented at the moment.

The previous year we did Punta Cana, Dominican Republic and it was lovely. As a matter of fact, I did that trip solo with the kiddos. More on it in a later post (lol) stay tune for that one! Back to the trip to Colombia, the plane ticket price was unbelievable. You already know I had to snatch the opportunity!

Not only were the tickets priced so cheap, but the location was a bucket list of mines. Adding sugar to the location (lol) it was also my birthday weekend, how cool is that!! Indeed, we all packed our carry-ons and jumped to the adventure!

This was our Fantastic 6 view from our location where we stayed, in Cartagena Colombia!
This was our Fantastic 6 view from our location where we stayed, in Cartagena Colombia!

Packing and Airplane Ride

As a result, of being such a big group, my goal is to pack as light as possible and always keeping cost in mind as well. We always do research for the weather during the entire time of duration, ahead of time. Doing this allows me to plan ahead and have a number of outfits for each one of us that will all be minimal but functional. I’m the one that get all of the luggages ready to go.

What works in my family, is letting the teenagers help and pack their own items. Surprisingly, it keeps the nagging and all the questions of “where is ZXY item” to a very minimal amount. For the most part, I just give them the criterias, such as size of the luggage they are allowed to carry, and the numbers of items to bring. When it comes to packing, I stick to the most minimal and items that are multi purposes. As a result, of having been traveling for such a long time already, the boys know the drill and do a well job!

For the youngest ones, I for sure go hard on their snack bags (lol). This has been a lifesaver over and over again. My number one secret! is to make sure to bring enough snacks and an empty bottle for everyone. Evidently, it keeps everyone happy and smooth sailing. On top of it all, there is no stopping and buying overpriced airport items! By this point, I’m a TSA expert and even get compliments from them about how I pack and get through the checkpoints with ease (LOL).

Our plane ride was nice and smooth! with no tantrums, or breakdowns. Woohoo!!
Our plane ride was nice and smooth! with no tantrums, or breakdowns. Woohoo!!

Plane Ride

Crazy but for this trip, we only packed 1 checked bag and all the kids had their own carry-on. Being that I’m teaching them responsibility at a very young age, they are responsible of their own carry-on luggage. Let me not forget, we do allow each child to bring 1 electronic device, a small blanket, and small activities books.

Accommodation

This is the part here, where my partner plays his part. This is his area of expertise for him! Usually, we come together and discuss prices and finalization of plans, once he has a few runner ups. But the grunt of it all, is done by him.

When traveling with kids, is important for us not only safety but also to be centralized to the area we are planning to explore. On this particular trip, we found our Jackpot! As a result, it accommodated us all comfortably and for a very good price. To add, it was smack in the middle of all the action. I’m talking about places to eat all around, beach, plaza, markets, and stores all within walking distance.

It Was a Great Experience

We did an entire week in Cartagena and enjoyed it all! From, the exploration around town, to blending in with the locals and trying local food. It was the perfect time to take the entire family. Things were still being sanitized and under the pandemic protocols. Overall, the area was not crazy packed, and the vendors were somewhat non-aggressive towards us.

Indeed, I’m glad we took this opportunity to visit such a beautiful country! Stay tune for more of our travels as big family with multiple children. More to come for sure 🙂