What are the challenges and benefits associated with taking children out of school for educational experiences? What measures can families take to ensure responsible and sustainable travels?
Discover the secrets of visiting the Galapagos as a family, from the best times to go, the impact of responsible tourism, to the ideal age for kids to fully enjoy this unique destination. Get ready for an engaging conversation with guest Fernando Diez that will inspire and equip all dads with the knowledge and confidence to create unforgettable family adventures.
In this episode, you will be able to:
- Understand the importance of patience in parenting, especially in challenging circumstances.
- Discover the impact of family travel and find a balance between work and family time.
- Learn about the unique experiences and considerations for planning a family trip to the Galapagos.
- Explore the significance of responsible and sustainable tourism in the Galapagos.
- Receive practical advice on preparing for a family adventure..
Great Dad Talks: Family Adventures and Travel Wisdom with Fernando Diez
Hey there, Paul Banas here, host of the Great Dad Talks podcast. Today’s episode was one that I’ve been looking forward to for a while, as we had the pleasure of chatting with Fernando Diez, the head of an adventure travel company called Quasar Expeditions. Fernando had a lot of insightful tips and experiences to share about exploring the Galapagos with your family. Let’s dive into this exciting conversation and explore the wonders of this unique destination through the lens of fatherhood.
The Impact of Patience
Fernando emphasized the importance of patience when it comes to parenting, emphasizing how lack of sleep can negatively impact patience. He shared a valuable insight about maintaining composure in stressful moments by reflecting on how our actions will be perceived in the future.
“It’s about standing back and understanding, ‘How is my reaction or action going to be perceived in the length of time?'” – Fernando Diez
Mantras for Maintaining Patience
Fernando highlighted the concept of having a mantra to maintain patience, encouraging dads to control their reactions and impulses. This is an important tool for managing the occasional challenges of parenting.
Setting Expectations for Family Trips
Fernando stressed the importance of finding a balance between working and spending quality time with the family. He advised dads to communicate and set expectations when planning trips or experiences with the family, fostering a sense of collaboration and excitement.
Family Travel and the Galapagos
One of the most fascinating aspects of our conversation was the focus on the Galapagos as a family-friendly destination. Here are some key takeaways from Fernando’s insights:
- The Galapagos is a year-round destination with stable weather.
- Families should consider the “secret season” from September to November, which offers less demand, discounts, and the same weather and wildlife.
- The equatorial location of the Galapagos means a stable climate that is unaffected by climate change.
- Planning well in advance is crucial, especially for popular times like Christmas and New Year’s.
Sustainability and Responsible Tourism
Fernando discussed the impact of tourism in the Galapagos, emphasizing the significance of responsible and sustainable travel. He advised against large cruise ships and recommended seeking out companies with a sustainability agenda and eco-friendly practices.
The Ideal Age and Experience for Kids
Fernando shared insights about the ideal age for kids to experience the Galapagos, highlighting the long-lasting impact of the trip on children. He emphasized the importance of family-friendly guides and activities, ensuring that both kids and adults have a memorable and enriching experience.
“A lot of this is just gifting your kids things they will reflect on, and hopefully, that’ll carry on for generations to think about sustainability and conservation, which is what we care deeply about here in the Galapagos.” – Fernando Diez
Planning and Preparation
Physical preparation for a trip to the Galapagos is minimal, as it is a soft adventure with light walks and hikes suitable for all ages. Here are some additional points to consider when planning a trip to the Galapagos:
- Budget cruises start at around $200 per person per night, while luxury cruises can exceed $800 per person per night. Prices are all-inclusive.
- Cruise durations range from 3 nights to 14 nights, offering flexibility for different family schedules and preferences.
- Different cruise companies offer varying itineraries and destinations, so it’s important to choose one that aligns with your family’s interests and values.
An unforgettable family adventure
Overall, our conversation with Fernando Diez shed light on the incredible opportunities for families to explore the Galapagos in a responsible, sustainable, and enriching way. The wonders of this unique destination can leave a lasting impact on children and parents alike, fostering a deep appreciation for nature and conservation.
Fernando Diez
Entrepreneur/Marketing Director at Quasar Expeditions
GreatDad.com/coaching
GreatDad.com/pq
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