It has been a week since our 5 day HK escapade. We won this trip courtesy of a game at the lovely Chua-Ng wedding, and are very grateful to the host families for the opportunity to travel and bond as a family. We started the trip very excited and went home tired but very happy (especially our little master). I honestly think that Bry and I became stronger as parents because of the experience. Here are the tidbits of what we learned :)
RESEARCH, MAKE A LIST, CHECK IT TWICE !
We prepared a list of the stuff we had to bring, as well as out itinerary. For our flights and lodging, we made our bookings and checked-in online to save time. We checked out websites do we know what to bring in terms of the facilities and the weather. Don't forget the medicines, too! Our lifesavers were the Ipad and the stroller. Most areas in HK have lifts so bringing the stroller along was helpful even if it was bulky. We we were able to use it for our bags even during the times Ben felt like walking.
BE FLEXIBLE
As much we tried to prepare, we had to adjust some of our plans depending on Ben's schedule. We had to prioritize which places we really wanted to go. Both my boys were troopers! They gladly accompanied me to Ikea even if it was such a long trip there. But we had to skip visiting another shopping mall because we were so pressed for time. (PS. We bought an easel from Ikea when Ben is enjoying right now so the trip wasn't a waste, hehe! )
DIVIDE and CONQUER
Bry and I split up parenting duties during the trip. From feeding, baths, naps and making sure we don't leave stuff behind. We also had instances when one took care of Ben while the other has some alone time (or at least that was the plan, haha) Kudos to daddy for being an expert utensils /clothes washer!
HAVE FUN!
My boys were always there to remind me that we took this trip to have fun. As a wise mom once shared "I'd rather me a happy mom than a perfect mom" ... so what if your schedule is off a bit, or what if you end up feeling a little stressed along the way? The most important thing is you end up with happy memories despite the imperfections. Also, try to make most of your time in the new place you are in, you'll surely be tired but won't regret being productive.
A NOTE ABOUT BREASTFEEDING IN HK
I had to gather enough courage to breastfeed Ben in public during our trip. I had to feed him in a bus, in the train, and inside a restaurant. Thankfully, there are parents' rooms available in malls where you can breastfeed your baby. Some are more comfortable than others. I was able to feed Ben inside the HK Disneyland breastfeeding room. It had two rocking chairs and the lights were dim so very conducive for getting a toddler to settle down. For me, the trick is to find the right nursing clothes and to remind yourself that you are nourishing your child. Better to have a quiet feeding child than a loud crying cranky one, right?
LOVE LOVE LOVE DISNEYLAND PARK AND HOTEL!!! Can't wait to do it again :)
