A woman and two children walk along a wooded path surrounded by colorful autumn foliage. (yourapechkin (123RF))
Recently, adventure traveling has gained popularity, and many families seek to strengthen their connections and bond by taking part in enriching experiences.
Adventure travel focuses on exploring through physical activity and the enjoyment of nature, instead of the typical touristy experiences. It is a way to push individuals out of their comfort zones, providing not only a challenge but the opportunity to build a deeper connection, especially when shared with family, according to Eric Brymer et al.
Perhaps, many people have overlooked the mental health benefits of adventure travel. However, I am here to share some tips with you.
Traveling together provides unique experiences. Every day, more and more families decide to skip some of the most popular attractions and tourist places to engage in immersive activities that help create a more memorable experience and foster a sense of accomplishment. Some examples could be a Flamenco dance class in Barcelona, a pierogi-making class in Poland, a dolphin swimming experience in Portugal and so on. Families can browse for experiences using websites such as GetYourGuide, Viator and Airbnb Experience.
One of the greatest benefits when traveling is the physical activity we engage in without even realizing it. Regardless of whether you are hiking Mount Pilatus in Switzerland or strolling down the streets of Valencia, you are combining sightseeing with physical wellness.
Research shows that spending time outside improves mental health by decreasing anxiety and symptoms of depression, increasing vitamin D and improving focus and creativity. Families are choosing natural landscapes because of appealing activities such as hiking, climbing or simply exploring nature.
Maybe you are wondering how you can create lasting memories when the children have been fighting, the baby has been crying all day, the toddler is not having a fun day, the teenager is complaining about the heat or the other children are tired of walking. When traveling, it is important to plan something that everyone enjoys. Ideally, you combine something for yourself and something for the kids so that everyone has an opportunity to have fun. Most of the time, you don’t need to plan paid activities. While the children may not be very eager to hike, maybe they will be in a better mood if there is ice cream on the way back, or they can have fun playing by the lake. The thing is that traveling creates memorable experiences for families.
It doesn’t matter if you are hiking or kayaking; those moments together often require communication and teamwork, which ultimately create bonds.
Lastly, adventure travel can be an educational tool. When you are traveling, you learn about other cultures and ecosystems as well as gain skills. These learning opportunities enrich the minds of both children and adults.
Two girls feeding a goat (Janine Rodriguez)
Free Admission
Humberg Tower (Humbergturm) – Kaiserslautern
Easy forest trails, stroller-friendly in some parts
Panoramic views from the historic tower
Dogs allowed
Gelterswoog Lake Trail
Easy loop around the lake, picnic areas, and playground nearby
Good for small children; dogs allowed on leash
Felsenwanderweg – Rodalben
Scenic sandstone rock formations and caves
Choose shorter sections for young kids, as this is a hard trail and takes hours to complete the loop.
Free parking at the trailhead
Wild- und Wanderpark Lautre
Easy trail, not very stroller-friendly unless you have a jogging stroller
Paid Admission
Treetop Walk Saarschleife
Approximately one hour from K-Town
Treetop path, educational stations, nature playground
Check the website for the entrance fee and other information.
Kurpfalz-Park Wachenheim
Animal park with walking trails, playgrounds, and toboggan rides.
Nice forest setting and lots of space to walk. Bring your lunch and spend the day.
Check their website for the entrance fees and other information.
Two girls looking into a fountain on a sunny day (Janine Rodriguez)
Editor’s Note: This article was written by a member of the local military community, not an employee of Stars and Stripes. Neither the organization nor the content is being represented by Stars and Stripes or the Department of Defense.
