This article is full of lively suggestions especially for those who are traveling with toddlers, children, and pregnant woman. So whatever the age of your kids, and if you are a 'mama to be' then keep reading!

When traveling with a toddler keep in mind the following tips:

• Tiny Shoes -- Make sure shoes are easy to slip on and off. US and some international security checks are taking off even the smallest of infants' shoes.
• Takeoff and landing -- Breastfeed (if that's still an option) or give the child a bottle during take off and landing. Sucking will help the baby to cope with changes in cabin pressure (which causes ear pain). If mamma's ears are sore -- she can chew gum or suck on a hard candy.
• Food -- Bring crackers of different sizes and shapes. Kiddies will be amused and fed at the same time. Of course, foods (only packed ones) that you feel your child can't do without must be carried.
• Chinese Shoes -- If you or anybody you know is traveling to China, ask them to buy some baby shoes for your child (just trace the outline of your toddler's foot on a sheet of paper if the child isn't traveling with you). Chinese shoes are well made, beautifully designed and cost a fraction of what you'd pay at home. Especially good are the ones with a built in squeak -- as the child steps down the shoes make a soft noise. This way you always know where she or he is.
• Free Hands -- Backpacks are a must. This way you can carry the essentials such as diapers, wipes, baby food, bottles, activities for the child, and still have your hands free -- a must when touring with little ones.

Tips for the pregnant woman

Today, with proper awareness and attitude, women can generally travel right up to their 35th week of pregnancy. Flying, trekking or being on the road for an extended period of time can be perfectly o.k. Pregnant women needn't ever stop being Journey women as long as they check with their physicians or midwives for healthy guidelines.

Here are some pregnancy pointers while traveling:

• Don't put off for tomorrow what you absolutely must do today. Try to have at least your first prenatal checkup before you travel. Your doctor or midwife is the best person to consult with regarding your upcoming journey.
• You should check your airlines' rules about pregnant passengers before you book your ticket. Most airlines will allow you to fly up to the 35th or 36th week of your pregnancy, providing you're healthy and there is no previous history of premature labor. However rules do vary so it makes sense to re-check at the time of booking. You could also be asked to supply a letter from your doctor verifying the stage of your pregnancy. It's a good idea to carry this document along with your other important travel papers.
• Check your travel insurance policy carefully to make sure that you'll be covered for all eventualities. Most policies don't automatically cover pregnancy-related conditions or nursery care for premature infants.
• Most, but not all, vaccines are considered safe during pregnancy. Once your pregnancy is confirmed, get vaccinated for any specific disease before traveling to that particular country.
  If possible, avoid traveling in malarial zones. Even while taking anti-malarial drugs, pregnant women are more liable to catch the disease, and the illness tends to be more severe.
• Dreaming of finally climbing that mountain? Especially if you're in the first trimester of your pregnancy, avoid high-altitude destinations, where oxygen to the fetus could be decreased.
• The safest time to travel seems to be during the second three months of pregnancy. Providing your pregnancy has been problem-free, the risk of miscarriage will be small and there is little chance of early labour or other complications.
• Pamper yourself. When planning your holiday, avoid too hectic a pace. It's wise to build in extra rest stops while you're on the road. Remember, your body is busy nurturing a baby, and the extra effort of travel makes it work even harder.
• It isn't always easy to eat properly when traveling. Constipation can become a problem, especially if you're taking iron supplements. Try to eat plenty of high-fiber foods, like fruits and vegetables.
• For coping with morning sickness, ginger is an excellent remedy. Crystallized forms can be found in the baking section of most supermarkets. Otherwise, raw root ginger can be found just about anywhere in the world, and can be grated into your food in small amounts.

Remember these do's and don'ts and have a safe and enjoyable journey.

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