Gypsy Moms : Jayanthi Srivatsan
The Times Of Amma family believes deeply in travel. We also highly recommend travelling with children as it brings a fresh perspective to travel. Through 'Gypsy Moms' we aim to to feature Moms who enjoy travel, to inspire those readers who baulk at the idea of travelling with their children. Today we speak to Jayanthi Srivatsan. In her own words, Jayanthi Srivatsan a mother of two children (aged six and a half and four and a half), a professional classical dancer – teacher, an entrepreneur (runs her own boutique) conducts communication classes for schools, colleges and corporates,and loves to travel.
What does the word ‘travel’ mean to you?
Travel to me is exploring new horizons, culture, a lot of family time and off from the routine.
What is your preferred style of travel?
We do both the Luxury and the backpacking kind of holidays. In a year, we take one big vacation which is usually through some holiday planners primarily because my husband has a restricted vacation per year and so this kind of vacation is well planned is on a schedule but at the same time gives us our space to explore during the vacation. We take a lot of short breaks and this is mostly two nights three days or so, clubbing it with the long weekends that come. But whatever be the type we study about the place, research for information and have a list made on the places to be visited or activities to be done or explored.
Have you ever gone on a solo-trip?
I haven’t travelled alone much but plan to do that from this year. My only solo trip till date is my trek to Kothagiri. I enjoyed the trek and had a great experience meeting the Toda Tribe community and learning so much about their culture. What was amazing was they live in their own world but are still so connected with what is happening outside their community.
How has becoming a mother affected your love for travel, if at all?
Becoming a mother hasn’t affected my love for travel least bit.
In fact travel has increased especially the short breaks. I look forward to the travel because it gives a lot of time with my daughters and husband. We are more relaxed and don’t have a routine to disturb us. Both my husband and me love to travel, so from the day I conceived we never paused despite my pregnancy. Similarly post-delivery we took off on a short break to Pondicherry when my older daughter was barely a month old.
Which has been your most memorable family vacation and why?
My Europe trip in 2007 is one of my most memorable trips, so far. It was our first anniversary and we travelled close to 18 days. Exploring London through the metro was exciting. Similarly my first trip post-delivery to Hong Kong and Bangkok with a 6 month old infant was an experience. And my trip to Dubai in 2015 with two kids for the first time taught me how my travels would be, going forward.
What are your tips for travelling with kids?
Please don’t crib about travel with kids. Don’t look at it as pain but as pleasure. I have understood from my experience that kids adapt to whatever is available during travel. And it is mostly us (the grown-ups) that expect or want to offer some kind of comforts for them and when that is not available we get flustered. Do a thorough study of the place you plan to visit, choose a climatic condition that will be comfortable for your child if the kid has any health issues. I always carry some basic snacks, wet wipes, some basic toys or puzzles and books to keep them engaged if needed. Less luggage =more comfort. So, pack minimal. I usually like to talk to them about the place we are going well before the travel so that it mentally prepares them for the trip. The more we travel the more exposure the kids get and learn things that they aren’t taught through formal education.
Which destination is next on your list?
I have heard so much about Cambodia and Angkor Wat so planning on visiting Cambodia this summer. Egypt is also on the cards.
The Times Of Amma wishes Jayanthi a lifetime more of happy adventures and safe travels! If you are a 'Gypsy Mom' or you know of a Mom who loves to travel, mail us here or get in touch with us via our Facebook page.
