Mexico: Explore locally with little friends
This family trip to Mexico is a milestone in many ways. It was the first time we travelled not just as a family of three, but with friends — Kana and her family — and it was Anya’s last free flight before turning two.
Preparing for a trip with another family took a little more coordination, but it was worth it. The kids had each other, and we had extra hands (and laughter) along the way.
This flight was special — Anya’s last trip as an infant traveller. From now on, she’s officially a full-fare passenger! Luckily, she got her own seat both ways and even managed to nap comfortably on the return flight. She’s growing so fast — now buckling her own seatbelt and making sure we do, too.
Cozumel: Home Away from Home
📸 Photo idea: Airbnb backyard or pool scene with kids playing
The first half of our trip was spent in Cozumel, staying at a spacious Airbnb that felt like a mini resort of our own. It was so big that at times we had to call out to find each other. The backyard pool became our little paradise — the kids playing house and water fights among palm trees and tropical flowers.
Watching Anya and Kana go from shy strangers to hand-holding playmates was one of the sweetest memories. There’s something heartwarming about seeing friendships form under the Caribbean sun.
We also took time to explore the island — local beaches, markets, and family-run restaurants serving fresh tacos and seafood. Cozumel’s local rhythm, away from the crowds, gave us a glimpse of real island life.
Riviera Maya: All-Inclusive Ease
📸 Photo idea: resort pool or family dinner
The second half of the trip was at an all-inclusive resort in Riviera Maya — the kind of place where everything is taken care of. Sometimes, that’s exactly what you need, especially with toddlers.
Anya loved the teppanyaki show, the mini burgers at the steakhouse, and most of all, jumping into the pool. She watched older kids dive and tried to copy their moves with endless giggles. Even weeks later at our local pool in Halifax, she’s still “practicing her jumps,” laughing the same way she did in Mexico.
Travelling with young children has taught us that exploring local gems fills the soul, but all-inclusive stays still offer the easiest way to truly relax — to breathe, recharge, and enjoy time together without planning every detail.
The Ups and Downs
📸 Photo idea: sunset walk or beachside family photo
From sunset walks along pastel streets to sunrises over turquoise waters, Mexico filled our days with beauty. Flamingos, peacocks, sea breeze — and endless toddler laughter.
But travel, especially with little ones, isn’t always smooth. Just as we returned home, we got sick — the whole family. Fevers, rashes, sleepless nights. It wasn’t easy, but we got through it together. Parenting doesn’t stop when you’re tired or sick — and somehow, it makes you stronger as a family.
What This Trip Taught Us
📸 Photo idea: candid photo of the kids laughing together
Travelling with friends made everything richer — shared laughter, shared logistics, and shared memories. Travelling with a toddler reminded us that joy often comes in the smallest moments: a splash, a snack, a sunset.
And as parents, we learned that being sick together teaches empathy in ways comfort never could. We often think we know what’s best for our kids, but sometimes, the best thing we can do is simply feel what they feel — to slow down, to listen, and to care.
Because in the end, travel — like parenting — isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence.
Mexico was the highlight of our month — not because it was perfect, but because it was real, shared, and full of heart.