Why Adventures with Your Kids Are the Best (and Why It Might Be Time to Go Somewhere Different)

There’s nothing quite like experiencing the world through your child’s eyes. Whether it’s watching their face light up when the see a "real life shark" swimming by them, hearing them try to talk to their new friend in French, or listening to Moana's "What could be better than this" for the 100th time—traveling with kids is an adventure in every sense of the word. Sure, it takes a little more planning, a bit more patience, and maybe a few extra snacks, but the memories you make together are absolutely worth it.

But let’s be real for a second: flight prices right now are no joke. If you’ve been dreaming of a big-name destination but find yourself cringing at the cost of getting there, it might be time to consider something a little different—and that’s where the magic can happen.

For spring break this year flights to Tahiti were cheaper than going to Cancun or Dominican Republic. So in true Swaggert style, we said... Let's do it! We had a trip of a lifetime!! I was nervous about Nick and Anna being bored but not a problem. We went snorkeling 3+ times a day right off the beach, rented a little boat to take to swing with sharks and rays, biked around town, and played a lot of cards!

Anna in Bora Bora

At the Fare pote'e maeva huahine museum

The sacred blue eels in Huahine

Anna and Marcel at the Tiki Village in Moorea

Making friends at out Airbnb

Her French speaking bestie in Bora Bora

While you can visit French Polynesia in style staying in overwater bungalows, we decided for the more budget friendly Vrbo's. We had bikes available to us and in Bora Bora we had kayaks and paddle boards. The hosts were fabulous and most had pets (and some kids) which mad Anna super happy! She made friends with one of the host's 8 year old granddaughters and they played for hours without being able to understand the same language. It was pretty amazing to watch and listen!

Anna was obsessed with the legends that come from the Islands. Many of the she recognized from Moana but it was so fun that she was actually interested and wanted to learn more about them!

Some of the best family trips come from thinking outside the box. Instead of the same go-to spots, why not discover a hidden gem that’s just as fun, far less crowded, and easier on your wallet? Maybe it's a charming mountain town with rivers to splash in and trails to hike. Or a coastal spot with tide pools to explore and family-run seafood shacks. Or a cabin in the woods with nothing but board games, hammocks, and campfire stories. Kids don’t need famous landmarks—they need space to roam, new things to see, and you by their side.

Travel doesn’t have to be extravagant to be meaningful. With the right mindset, a flexible attitude, and a spirit of adventure, even a weekend road trip can feel like a big deal to your little ones. And let’s be honest—when they’re excited, curious, and laughing? That’s the real destination.

So if flight prices have you pausing on your plans, don’t cancel—pivot. Look somewhere new. You might just find a place that surprises you… and becomes your family’s new favorite.

Let’s start dreaming up your next adventure—wherever it may be!