An Australian mother has provided a candid and insightful account of her family's journey to France, offering valuable lessons for parents considering a European adventure with young children. Leah Goulis, who travelled from Australia to France with her kids, has revealed the realities of such a trip and shared expert advice on making the most of the experience, including a visit to the iconic Disneyland Paris.
The Decision to Travel to Europe with Children
Leah wrote in a parenting publication that a European getaway with kids is a significant undertaking, acknowledging that it took her a full decade to finally embark on the journey. She emphasised that her children had reached an age where they could manage long flights and appreciate the rich history and culture that France has to offer. This trip of a lifetime, she noted, transformed into a valuable learning opportunity that other families could benefit from when planning similar travels.
Navigating the Challenges of Paris with Youngsters
The first major hurdle, according to Leah, is getting around Paris itself. Despite common advice that the underground train system is straightforward to use, she found that taking the metro with children in tow presented considerable difficulties. The crowds, stairs, and fast pace can be overwhelming for families.
As an alternative, Leah strongly recommends exploring the city on foot whenever possible. This approach not only avoids the stress of public transport but also allows families to discover hidden gems and charming spots along the way. For longer distances, she suggests using Uber, which tends to be more affordable than traditional taxis, though travellers should remain mindful of potential traffic congestion.
Cultural Considerations and Accommodation Tips
Leah also addressed the perception of French arrogance towards tourists, noting that such attitudes are not uncommon. However, she advises that responding with politeness and making an effort with the local language can significantly improve interactions. A simple "bonjour" (good morning) and "merci" (thank you) when greeting shop and cafe owners can go a long way.
"Yes, most French locals speak English, but it's always a nice touch to at least attempt to make an effort - even if high school-level French is all you can muster," she remarked.
When it comes to accommodation, Leah advocates for choosing Airbnbs over traditional hotels. These properties often provide a more authentic experience, allowing families to see what daily life is like for locals. This option is particularly advantageous when travelling with children, as it can guarantee a homely atmosphere and the flexibility to adapt to your children's routines and needs.
Conquering Disneyland Paris: A Family Must-See
Naturally, a family trip to France included a visit to Disneyland Paris for Leah's clan. The resort consists of two main parks: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, both offering a wealth of attractions and entertainment.
Leah points out that while it's possible to experience the parks in a single day with older children, families with younger kids might find that two days are necessary to fully enjoy everything without excessive rushing.
Practical Strategies for Tackling the Parks
Tackling Disneyland Paris requires careful planning, and Leah shared several top tips to help families navigate the experience smoothly:
- Transportation to the Park: Visitors can hop on a free shuttle from selected stop-offs and partner hotels, or utilise the metro train network via the RER A train line. While taking an Uber to the park can be pricey, it offers greater flexibility for families.
- Advanced Preparation: Leah advises downloading the Disneyland app well in advance of your visit. Use it to save attractions you want to experience and book activities ahead of time to avoid missing out on popular options.
- Dining Reservations: Booking restaurants in advance can save considerable hassle and reduce time spent queuing during your visit.
- Evening Entertainment: Finally, she recommends staying until the park closes at 11pm to catch the spectacular Disney Tales of Magic show, which provides a magical conclusion to the day.
Leah's comprehensive insights offer a realistic yet optimistic perspective on family travel to France, blending practical advice with cultural awareness to help other parents create memorable and manageable European adventures with their children.
