Baby's First Trip

We just came back from a fabulous trip to Seattle. It was baby kai’s first airplane ride and excursion outside California. It went way better than I imagined. The sites and sounds at Pike Place made him giggle. The rest of us loaded up with clam chowder, piroshkis, and dark chocolate.

Suggestions and Realizations for travel with baby:

- Gone are days of kiosk check-in, you must show baby’s birth certificate and do counter check-in.

- Bring a Sit n Stroll. That way your bulky car seat and stroller stays home. The 3 – in 1 transformer like stroller was great for the trip. I even tested it on steep hills and cobblestone…it does the trick. I recommend checking it in at the gate. They’re expensive, but I found one on Craigslist for $75.

- Pike Place Market is a must see. Go early. The stroller was fine even with a crowd. Worried about nursing in such a crowded place? I found a quiet secret hideaway. There’s a little corridor next to The Souk Indian Market with chairs in the back. Seriously it provides privacy, warmth, and a place to rest.


- People always doubt me on this recommendation but visit the Seattle Central Library. The library is beyond any one's imagination. It can take your breathe away with all the ingenious and creative ways to encourage folks to read. Go, Go , Go.



- Visit the Seattle Center at night. If you’re like us and don’t want to pay $16 to go to the top of the space needle, just go here. You still get a great view of the needle plus your baby will love all the lights of the merry go round and Ferris wheel. Free admission.

- Stay at the Alexis Hotel which is run by the Kimpton Group. Not only are they kid-friendly, pet friendly, and earth friendly, it’s beautiful! You get more bang for your buck. Nice art on the walls, spacious rooms, and Aveda products. Alexis provides cribs, play yards, and a welcome kit for kids. Their rooms can start at $300 but there are always internet deals to be found for $170 a night. Wine receptions in the evening too.

- Do eat at Green Leaf Vietnamese Restaurant in the International District. The neighborhood has a rich history but it is more gritty. Food is authentic with Banh Xeo and Bun Rieu on the menu. Cheap, clean, and cozy too.