We are wrapping up some planning for our March trip to France and that means flights and lodging. More to come on flights in the coming weeks but we thought we’d share a snapshot of our apartment hunting criteria.
It’s all about the neighborhood
With a 5 and a 3 year old location is absolutely key for an enjoyable trip. We aim for the non-touristy-but therefore-still-touristy neighborhoods. We don’t typically stay in the super popular Piazza Navonas (Rome) or Plaza Mayors (Madrid) not because they are inherently bad places to stay but because they often have huge crowds all day long and we are looking for a bit of peace and quiet, while admittedly, still within walking distances of those happening areas. Such neighborhoods include Trastevere and Monti in Rome, the Marais in Paris, de Pijp in Amsterdam, and Huertas in Madrid 5 minutes from a tapas paradise, the Prado museum, and Retiro park.
These are not unknowns for regular travelers, more of a second tier of neighborhoods that offer a touch of authentic local life with the convenience of access to itinerary sights and public transportation.
Local neighborhoods also almost always have bakeries and grocery stores and restaurants within minutes. This is a lifesaver for anyone with small children (and/or grouchy adults). Being able to stock up on milk and other supplies easily throughout the day makes for a happy family. Second only to food and quiet evenings is having green space nearby. In Sevilla we were 3 minutes from Plaza de España which allowed for regular evening strolls, impromptu tandem bike rides and local entertainment.
Here are some neighborhood shots of playgrounds, parks, and sidestreet fun.
Apartment Amenities
We usually come with a few toys and books and blankets from home but it is a huge win when we find some kids toys or the ultimate dream of bunk beds! However we have found few homes that include this and so we focus on:
- Kid friendly
- no balconies without locks, or glass vases or giant paintings where little hands can reach
- Wash machine
- a “need”
- Kids are messy; let’s us pack less clothes
- Dryer
- borderline need/want
- Jeans take years to dry, don’t want to hang clothes all day
- Wifi
- standard these days
- evening photo uploads, social media posting, check weather, hour of operation for tomorrow
- Living space and kitchen
- place to make and eat breakfast
- space to sit and read books, talk about our day
Some of our successes are in the slide show below. Check out the Florence frescoes and Amsterdam toys!!
There’s never really a perfect place with a perfect layout or budget but if you and your family consider your travel principles and your itinerary and budget you should be able to find an apartment rental (or hotel if you prefer) that fits most of your criteria.
We hope to be doing this in the coming weeks for Paris in particular so we’ll keep you posted. .
Talk soon,
Dan & Betsy
Family Conversation topic: Describe the perfect neighborhood. What are the qualities each family member values in a neighborhood while traveling?