Freethinker555

My boys are currently 7 and 4. They have traveled quite a bit within the US, but I want them to have a bigger world view. When do you recommend taking them on international trips? Is it too early now for them to benefit? Should we start with some regions and leave others for later?

Thanks!

RoamsAround

For what it is worth my granddaughter made her first international trip when she was 8 months old. Since then she has traveled internationally 2 to 3 times a year. She's now 12 and on her third "passport"! She just loves travel. She's currently on a trip through Portugal, Spain, France & London.

As far as where to go, that's really up to you and what you thing they might enjoy seeing. The main thing for you to consider is how you think they will handle being cooped up in a plane for hours on end. Only you know the answer for that. And, you have to find places & things to do that will interest them - again only you know what that might be.

dk9

Try Greece, is a paradise on earth (when there are no riots!)

suze

If you can afford it, I don't think it's ever too soon to begin international travel for children.

I didn't until I was an adult on my own, but that was because of finances not lack of interest.

sparkchaser

If you are flying private charter, any time you want; otherwise, when they are old enough to not be an annoyance/aggravation to other travelers.

GBelle

Try Canada.
We drove to Canada on a 2 week summer trip one year when my kids were a bit older than yours. I had them choose places they wanted to see (they chose: an amusement park, science center, & hockey hall of fame, among others) and the adults chose places too (like theater, museums, etc.)

From what I recall, we visited Montreal, Ottawa, and Toronto (among other places) and returned via Niagara Falls.

Sassafrass

They may not remember much, but you could do it now. By age 9 or so, they should remember a lot. Prep them well with stories, books, games, etc. about the places and things they will see. There are good travel books written for children and many activities around the world geared toward children. Plan activities in which they can participate. Boating, swimming, kite flying, etc.

Whathello

We just took them with us. Not paying attention to age.
International doesn't mean much to Belgians : we drive 100 miles and we are in 4 different countries.
Overseas ... The earliest we did was to take one at 6 months.