A Family Tradition of Wanderlust
Travel has always been a part of Karthika’s life story. Her grandfather was an avid traveler who chronicled his journeys, often sharing amusing tales from his adventures. Karthika’s mother also shares a love for discovering new places, while her father, though not a travel enthusiast, had to frequently travel for business across various countries. Despite not being passionate about travel, he appreciated the exposure to different cultures and people, always returning with captivating stories. Karthika believes her interest in travel was sparked by this family history of exploration.
Growing Up with a Routine of Travel
With relatives spread across different locations, Karthika’s family traveled during almost every vacation, making travel a routine part of life. This early exposure to different environments laid the foundation for her love of exploring new places.
Becoming Part of Appooppanthaadi
Karthika has been part of Appooppanthaadi—an initiative for women to travel together—since its inception. She was involved in the early discussions when Sajna Ali conceived the idea. This initiative gave Karthika a sense of community and encouraged her to continue her passion for travel, despite facing challenges along the way.
Overcoming Challenges: Juggling Work, Family, and Health
Finding Balance
Like many others, Karthika faces the challenges of managing work, family responsibilities, and health issues, but she firmly believes that nothing is impossible. Despite these obstacles, she has made it a priority to continue traveling, both for herself and her family.
Traveling with Prarthana: A Journey in Parenthood
Starting Young: The First Trip
Karthika started taking her daughter Prarthana on trips when she was just 1.5 years old. Initially, Karthika was hesitant about traveling with a baby, but her mother’s encouragement gave her the confidence she needed. Her priority was simply to bring Prarthana along and expose her to the world of travel from an early age. Karthika wanted her daughter to experience various environments and social situations, hoping this would help her become comfortable and adaptable.
Planning Ahead for Every Trip
Since Prarthana was still dependent on milk and homemade formula, and in diapers during those early trips, Karthika meticulously planned and packed everything from diapers to emergency medications for stomach aches and allergies. The habit of careful planning has continued, ensuring her daughter’s well-being throughout their adventures.
Prarthana’s Growing Enthusiasm for Travel
Developing a Love for Nature and Adventure
As Prarthana grew older, she began to enjoy their trips more actively. She became eager to know about their vacation plans, ensuring there were activities she would enjoy. During their recent trip to Vietnam, she loved hiking, even climbing alongside adults while Karthika stayed behind due to health reasons. Karthika believes that including her daughter in these experiences has helped her adapt to different social situations and foster a sense of independence.
Memorable Trips: From Manali to Kashmir
The Long Journey to Manali
One of their first long trips was when Prarthana was five years old, visiting the snowy landscapes of Manali. Karthika made sure to pack extra clothes, medications, and winter essentials for Prarthana, who is prone to allergic colds and wheezing. This careful planning ensured that her daughter could fully enjoy her first experience with snow.
Cherished Family Moments in Kashmir
Karthika treasures their family trip to Kashmir the most. The trip was a wonderful mix of experiences and interactions, as they met amazing families and shared many memorable moments. While the men watched cricket, the women engaged in daily gossip sessions, and Prarthana played with the other children. The snow scooter ride in Manali and horseback riding in Kashmir were among the highlights of their adventures.
Lessons in Parenting Through Travel
Facing Health Challenges
Not all trips went smoothly. During their Kashmir trip, Prarthana experienced severe indigestion. Despite carrying medication, it didn’t help. Fortunately, a couple of doctors in their travel group provided the right medicine, allowing Prarthana to recover quickly and continue enjoying the trip.
Preparing for Success
Karthika has learned that packing essential items like medications, extra clothes, and comfort items for Prarthana is crucial for a smooth trip. Ensuring her daughter’s safety, happiness, and connection with others is always a top priority.
Karthika’s Philosophy on Traveling with Children
Embracing the Crankiness
Karthika understands why some parents avoid traveling with children—kids can get cranky or bored. However, she believes that once children become accustomed to travel, they adapt much more easily. According to Karthika, travel provides children with valuable lessons in adapting to new environments, exploring the world, and becoming independent.
The Importance of Early Exposure
Karthika emphasizes the importance of starting this process early. “If we don’t start now, when will they get the chance?” she asks. As parents, she believes it is their responsibility to help shape their children during these formative years, guiding them toward becoming self-reliant individuals. Travel, in her view, plays a significant role in fostering this development.
